Manchester United face a major midfield dilemma heading into a crucial summer window.
Manuel Ugarte has struggled to adapt to the demands of the Premier League, raising serious doubts about his long-term future at the club.
As he approaches the end of his second year in Manchester, the signs suggest a move abroad may be the best route to revive his career.
Casemiro has already confirmed that he will leave United when his contract expires at the end of June.
The Red Devils have decided against triggering the 12-month extension clause in his contract.
Casemiro no longer possesses the stamina or intensity required to thrive in English football.
United could quickly fix that by signing a young dynamic number six, who could provide security to the defence and cover every blade of grass.
Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali and Carlos Baleba are at the top of that transfer wishlist.
Casemiro is not as mobile as he was when he guided Real Madrid to five Champions League titles.
However, he is still one of the smartest players in the sport.
He understands his limitations and continues to rely on exceptional positional awareness to influence matches.
Casemiro has been extraordinary in the final third. He has eight goals and two assists to his name in the Premier League.
In contrast, Anderson has managed just two goals, while Baleba and Tonali are yet to open their accounts this season.
This stark comparison highlights the unique attacking threat Casemiro brings from midfield.
If INEOS believe replacing him is simply a matter of signing another defensive midfielder, they may be underestimating the challenge.
In reality, it could take more than one player to truly fill the void he leaves behind.
If the incoming holding midfielder lacks the ability to play progressive passes from deep, United must find alternative sources for Casemiro’s goals.
For now, it seems like INEOS are fighting a losing battle to replace Casemiro.
Stats from Fotmob.com