Casemiro of during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Newcastle United
Casemiro is set to leave Manchester United in the summer when his contract expires
The summer transfer mission for Manchester United is clear: it's time to sign a midfielder.
The club have been putting off their next big investment in the central ranks for some time now, having put their focus into improving other areas such as the backline and the attacking options.
Now, it's time for the centre of the park. While that seemed likely to be the focus of the recruitment team anyway, that need has been accelerated due to Casemiro's situation.
Man United have confirmed that Casemiro will leave the club this summer at the end of his contract, with the decision made not to trigger the extra year that is included as a clause in his deal.
The Brazilian was one of the last major investments in the midfield, with around £60m spent on securing him from Real Madrid in 2022.
While there have been some highlights, it seems United are keen to move on and look at the future beyond the 33-year-old, which puts greater emphasis on their deals in the summer.
So, with that said, here's a look at a few potential replacements for Casemiro in the transfer market, and what they could offer the team in the years ahead.
Adam Wharton
Adam Wharton has already proved he has the skills and qualities to slot into any Premier League squad at present. However, given he is currently wanted by the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester City, Liverpool and Spurs, United will face stiff competition in securing his services this summer. A fee north of £65m could also await any interested parties, given the 21-year-old is already Premier League proven.
2. Elliot Anderson
While Wharton is thought to be United's main interest at present, it is thought that Elliot Anderson is also being monitored. The 23-year-old has been a shining light in a struggling Nottingham Forest squad this season, but a deal will not come cheap. That's because the Tricky Trees have reportedly slapped Anderson with a price tag of around £100m.
3. Carlos Baleba
United pursued Carlos Baleba for the majority of the summer, only to be put off by Brighton's £100m valuation of the 22-year-old. An interest still remains in the midfielder and it will be interesting to see if the Seagulls' stance on letting him leave the south coast changes this summer.
4. Joao Gomes
Joao Gomes has excelled with Wolves despite the club staring directly down the barrel of imminent relegation. The MEN reported earlier this week that a loan with an obligation to buy for the 24-year-old would be a most likely move. Wolves reportedly want £40m to let him leave midway through 2025/26.
5. Eduardo Camavinga
Like Baleba, United found themselves linked with Real Madrid's Eduardo Camavinga in the summer. The 23-year-old has been a revelation at the Bernabeu, with Arsenal and Liverpool said to be monitoring him. It was reported last month that Los Blancos will listen to offers around the £87m mark.