Manchester United are planning for life without Casemiro for next season after a decision on his contract status was made, and now talks are underway about finding his replacement.
A midfield overhaul is widely expected this summer, with Manuel Ugarte also expected to be on the move away from Old Trafford, and a host of Premier League names, including Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, and Sandro Tonali have all been linked with a move to be the face of that rebuild alongside Kobbie Mainoo.
But it has now emerged that a new name is being targeted for the role of replacing the Brazilian, and he has now been listed as a primary target within the club.
Man Utd Eyeing Orkun Kokcu
Orkun Kokcu in action for Benfica
Kokcu, described as 'elite', has enjoyed a fantastic campaign since returning back to Turkey from Benfica last summer, scoring seven goals and registering eight assists from midfield in 32 appearances.
Having been handed the captain's armband just months after joining, United are understood to rate the player's dynamic style of play and his leadership qualities, and have now earmarked him as a potential replacement for Casemiro in the heart of the midfield.
Currently under contract until 2030 in Istanbul, the 25-year-old is valued at a minimum of €50m by Besiktas, who don't want to lose their star man, but that price isn't expected to put United off if they opt to firm up their interest.
Casemiro's departure is expected to 'leave a hole in the heart of the midfield', but his experience, despite his age, is seen as a potential solution to that. It's also understood that the club are keen to ensure whoever their next permanent manager is has a world-class midfield to work with.
Kokcu Could Be Ideal Secondary Signing
Manchester United caretaker boss Michael Carrick claps the fans
Reports have emerged this week that Carrick is the frontrunner to be the next permanent manager, and a player like Kokcu is certainly likely to be someone that appeals to him due to his style of play.
But as a replacement for Casemiro, it would require a major change of style, and there would be question marks over whether he is good enough to step into that role. But if United are able to bring in someone like a Tonali or an Anderson, who know the league well and are probably better fits, then sign Kokcu as another midfielder to strengthen, it could be shrewd business.
GIVEMESPORT asked ChatGPT to break down Kokcu's style of play and his strengths and weaknesses, and this was its response:
Orkun Kökçü – Style & Profile
Deep-lying/playmaking #8; dictates tempo, progressive passer
Strong vision, long-range shooting, set-piece threat
High work rate, presses aggressively, good leadership
Weaknesses
Can lack elite pace/athleticism
Defensive positioning inconsistent at times
Risk-taking in possession can lead to turnovers
sir jim ratcliffe Related
'Unbelievable' Coach in 'Pole Position' to be Next Permanent Man Utd Manager
An 'unbelievable' coach is understood to be in 'pole position' to be the next permanent Man Utd manager.