Manchester United are already putting plans in place to offset the imminent departure of Casemiro, with the Brazilian enforcer’s spell nearing its conclusion in the summer.
It has been a largely successful period for the five-time Champions League winner, having joined from Real Madrid late in the 2022 summer window for a reported fee of £60 million + £10m in add-ons.
After a hugely impressive debut season, the veteran midfielder endured a difficult second term, ultimately missing out on the FA Cup final win over Manchester City before being heavily linked to a move away.
However, to his credit, he knuckled down and has since gone on to silence his critics with a string of much-improved performances during consecutive campaigns.
Naturally, United will miss someone of Casemiro’s ability and experience, so they will undoubtedly delve into the market this summer and try to find a suitable replacement.
Here, I take a look at some of the viable options available to the 20-time English champions and what they could bring to the table. Whilst also discussing the future of in-house talent, Kobbie Mainoo.
Elliott Anderson – Nottingham Forest
A man who has undoubtedly elevated himself to the top of many punters’ wishlists is Nottingham Forest’s central linchpin, Elliott Anderson.
At just 23 years old, the former Newcastle prospect has blossomed into one of the finest all-round midfielders in the country since moving to the City Ground in 2024.
Viewed as more of a no. 8 than a classic ‘6’ in the mould of, say, Casemiro, he possesses strong defensive attributes, with intense pressing efforts, and excellent passing range and ability to link play.
With Forest likely to command a fee in the region of £100m, Anderson will not come cheap, and any potential deal could be delayed due to his expected involvement at the 2026 World Cup.
Many believe the Englishman to be the perfect option to bolster United’s engine-room, and the Red Devils are known to be extremely keen on landing their priority target.
However, with City also interested, a move to M16 is far from a foregone conclusion. Participation in next season’s Champions League is also likely to be a key factor in the player’s final decision.
Carlos Baleba – Brighton & Hove Albion
If you are to believe reports, one man who remains high up on Manchester United’s shortlist this summer is Carlos Baleba.
The Cameroon star was coveted by many in 2025, and Ineos even explored the possibility of acquiring the impressive 22-year-old in August. Ultimately, nothing materialised.
However, as we exclusively revealed in September, club officials have kept Baleba in their thoughts, with a view to perhaps revisiting a situation that first arose late last summer.
Despite an underwhelming campaign, the former-Lille youngster remains a high-potential prospect, with elite ball-carrying, immense press resistance, and eye-catching defensive capabilities.
Baleba possesses a strong, stocky build with great acceleration and power, allowing him to dominate duels and cover significant ground.
Despite many observers being turned off by the idea of seeing his arrival at Old Trafford, his dip in form is likely just a temporary issue.
I would certainly not bet against him returning to his best in the near future and finally fulfilling his dream move, but Brighton would need to lower their extortionate demands.
His profile would undeniably suit United.
Adam Wharton – Crystal Palace
Adam Wharton is one of the most highly-rated young players in the Premier League following a stellar two years at Selhurst Park.
A deep-lying midfield playmaker, Wharton excels both offensively and defensively, and was superb as Palace won the FA Cup and Community Shield in 2025.
Still, any potential transfer would again prove complicated, with the London outfit certain to demand big money for one of their most prized assets.
Despite not possessing the physicality or dynamism of those mentioned, the technically gifted Lancashire lad has often been compared in style to ex-United great Michael Carrick.
Wharton is another one who is likely to feature for Thomas Tuchel, so any potential transfer could well prove to be difficult to finalise.
Nonetheless, his distribution and creativity are something United have been missing outside of Bruno Fernandes, as well as being known for his elite passing range, vision, and overall football intelligence.
What this means for Kobbie Mainoo
Having endured a torrid run under former head-coach Ruben Amorim, Mainoo has re-emerged looking like a revitalised figure under the stewardship of Carrick.
Brought back in from the cold, having been frozen out of the starting XI, Mainoo has impressed and proven he is more than capable as a regular starter.
At only 20, the Stockport man will surely be given ample opportunity to stake a long-term claim, whether that be under Carrick or a new manager.
Without question, Mainoo is a composed, intelligent player who usually retains possession well, with his technical quality shining through.
This is something United can continue to benefit from, and they should take this into account when they’re profiling new midfield recruits.
Kobbie could yet prove to be a perfect foil for one, or even two, new faces in the middle of the park, depending on the desired system.
So, rather than looking over his shoulder, let’s hope he continues to work hard, safe in the knowledge that he can absolutely be a key cog in Manchester United’s midfield revamp.
Who would you like to see take over the mantle from Casemiro next season? Let us know in the comments or across our social channels.
Photo by Alfie Cosgrove/News Images via depositphotos.com.
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