Manchester United will be looking to replace Casemiro in the summer transfer window, with the Brazilian set to leave the club after four years.
The 34-year-old's contract at Old Trafford expires this summer and he will not be renewing his deal to stay with the Red Devils.
There has been lots of talk about possible replacements for the Brazilian, with GIVEMESPORT understanding it is United's priority to sign one, maybe two central midfielders when the transfer window opens.
United have been linked with a number of high-profile stars, with Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson and Sandro Tonali all named as potential signings.
Manchester United Could Go To Newcastle For Two Stars
Sandro Tonali in action for Newcastle United against Manchester United in the Premier League
All are likely to command a huge fee, with Tonali's name recently added to the list of three previous candidates. But should United be looking at one of Tonali's Newcastle teammates instead?
Bruno Guimaraes is undoubtedly the star at St James' Park and the one the supporters would be loathe to lose most.
But if United are willing to spend big on Tonali, it stands to reason they should make a move to prise Guimaraes away from the north east instead.
Tonali may be more similar in defensive stature to the departing Casemiro, but Guimaraes has the all-round game to match his Brazilian counterpart. And, according to reports, Guimaraes is on the list of potential players to bring in, with Casemiro understood to have recommended him to United officials already.
Eddie Howe Is A Big Fan Of Bruno Guimaraes
Eddie Howe
Guimaraes is loved on Tyneside and is loved by his boss Eddie Howe. Speaking after the win over Fulham earlier this season, Howe said: "Bruno the player and the person together is a very special thing. His will to win, his drive, his determination to be successful is there for us every day."
Guimaraes is having an incredible season for the Magpies, pitching in with nine goals and six assists. Casemiro comes up with important goal contributions, but does not get close to those figures, with three goals and four assists to his name. Tonali on the other hand is yet to score this season and has provided just one assist.
Where Tonali compares more favourably to Casemiro is in the defensive side of the game, however, with 73 interceptions and 43 blocks. Casemiro averages 1.9 interceptions per 90 and 1.8 tackles per 90, with Guimaraes at 1.3 interceptions per 90 but a very close 1.7 tackles per 90.
Manchester United Need To Decide What Type Of Midfielder They Want To Sign
Newcastle United's Bruno Guimaraes celebrates vs Crystal Palace
Much will depend on what United will be seeking from their replacement. Guimaraes is the clear choice from an attacking point of view with Tonali will be a more defence-minded addition to the squad.
Both are likely to command a big transfer fee, much like the players at Nottingham Forest, Brighton and Crystal Palace that United will also test the waters for. But for his all-round game, Guimaraes would be the better bet than Tonali, if United do go to Newcastle with an open wallet.
Manchester United's Casemiro holding a football Related
Man Utd's 4-Man Midfielder Shortlist to Replace Casemiro - Including 'Fantastic' Star
Manchester United have already drawn up a four-man shortlist to replace the departing Casemiro.