Five midfielders Manchester United should target to replace Casemiro in summer transfer window

The Red Devils are set for a midfield rebuild this summer.

Casemiro’s announcement that he will be departing Manchester United at the end of the current campaign sparked rumours regarding potential transfer targets to replace him.

“It is not time to say goodbye; there are many more memories to create during the next four months,” Casemiro told the club’s official website.

“We still have a lot to fight for together; my complete focus will, as always, remain on giving my everything to help our club to succeed.”

Manchester United made an investment of almost £200 million in new attackers last summer in an effort to shore up their front line for the near future. The next major rebuild will focus on the middle, and if they are to acquire two potentially elite long-term possibilities, the cost will be roughly the same.

Here we have ranked the top five players who could be ideal replacements for Casemiro in Manchester United’s midfield engine room:

5. Angelo Stiller

There is a compelling case for Manchester United to make a summer acquisition of two top-tier defensive midfielders in light of Manuel Ugarte’s possible departure after failing to settle at Old Trafford.

Angelo Stiller would undoubtedly fit that description as a sophisticated deep-lying playmaker who could help United’s future manager bring the team up to speed.

However, it seems that he would be most effective when paired with a midfielder who is more physically fit and adept at ball-winning.

4. Sandro Tonali

Reports suggest that Manchester United want to sign Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United to replace midfielder Casemiro. After being linked to a move to Arsenal in January, the 25-year-old’s future at St. James’s Park is still up in the air.

United are now reportedly aiming to beat their rivals to the signing and they would want to see him line up next to Kobbie Mainoo. Manchester City and Juventus are expected to hold interest in Tonali. But Champions League qualification will be crucial to attract the Italian midfielder to Old Trafford.

3. Carlos Baleba

Carlos Baleba is the name that’s on everyone’s lips. Ever since Brighton rejected United’s interest in the Cameroonian last summer, United’s interest has not slowed down.

Although his profile makes him a perfect fit and he is unquestionably a quality prospect, the reported £100 million+ is obviously a lot of money and his performances this term have been lacklustre. The 22-year-old still has time on his hands to impress in the remaining matches of this season to complete his dream move to Manchester United.

2. Adam Wharton

If Manchester United view Wharton as a direct analogue substitute for Casemiro, then it’s an interesting case. However, many believe he isn’t an ideal replacement for the Brazilian given the difference in their playing style, and if United are to sign Wharton, they will need another midfielder who can complement him on the field.

Wharton’s style of play is similar to Kobbie Mainoo’s, and his addition won’t really solve United’s central midfield issues if United see him as Brazilian’s successor.

1. Elliot Anderson

A true powerhouse. For Nottingham Forest, the first player on the teamsheet for three managers with vastly different styles, Anderson has participated in every minute of Premier League action this season.

The 23-year-old has excelled despite a fractious team going through a turbulent campaign. He wins the ball back at an incredible rate, especially in the defensive and middle thirds.

But United will have to fend off City, who also have Anderson at the top of their wishlist. Reports suggest that Anderson prefers a move to City.

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