Major staff cuts and a number of cost-cutting measures implemented by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe have not been able to stem the lack of games in Europe and a number of blunders in the transfer market. – At the last report a few days ago, Manchester United confirmed a debt of an incredible £1.3 billion, almost 17 billion kroner.
Despite that, the Red Devils are planning a major overhaul of their midfield this summer, with top targets that include Bruno Guimarães, Sandro Tonali and Elliot Anderson.
AS writes that Manchester United are already planning a massive transfer raid in the summer. The Red Devils are expected to invest over $230 million to replace Casemiro, who has announced that he will not renew his contract after the World Cup, leaving a keyhole in midfield.
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Despite the recent upswing under Michael Carrick, United are thinking long-term. The club has been competitive in what could be the latest campaigns of several legends, with Casemiro among them. Replacing a player of his caliber will come with a high price tag.
A blank cheque for Casemiro’s successors
The search is on for an “irreplaceable” midfielder, a player capable of leaving a lasting legacy. United executives say they are prepared to make a significant investment just to fill Casemiro’s shoes, estimating a budget of more than $230 million for the role, although this figure would ideally see them recruit up to three players. The shortlist shares one key trait: Premier League experience and proven quality in England.
High-profile targets
At the top of United’s wish list are three names: Bruno Guimarães, Sandro Tonali and Elliot Anderson. Further down, but still in the mix, are Adam Wharton and João Gomes. These players are seen as both current and future options to help United once again fight for the title, but none of them are cheap or easy to sign.
Guimarães and Tonali are central figures for their current clubs. Guimarães, despite being out injured, is seen by United as a fundamental player for the future, and Casemiro reportedly recommended his signing. Newcastle United are negotiating a contract extension with Guimarães, which makes a transfer complicated.
Tonali, on the other hand, may be tempted to return to Italy – Juventus are interested but cannot currently afford him – but staying in the Premier League and joining a “Big Six” club is becoming increasingly likely.
United have had informal contact with the players’ representatives, but nothing has been agreed with the clubs. Newcastle would probably only allow one of the two to leave the club. Known as tough negotiators, the Magpies proved their bargaining power with the historic transfer of Alexander Isak for $165 million this summer. Any deal for any of the players is likely to surpass that number.
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Rising stars and alternatives
Elliot Anderson is another strong candidate. United have been pursuing the Nottingham Forest midfielder since the summer. Despite Forest’s troubles, Anderson has impressed, even surpassing Jude Bellingham in national recognition. Sources at the club see him as a potential cornerstone for the present and future, with his price dependent on whether Forest stay in the Premier League next season.
Further down the list are Adam Wharton and João Gomes. Wharton has excelled in London, but will leave Crystal Palace after the World Cup. He has previously been linked with clubs such as Real Madrid, Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City.
João Gomes, with Wolves in danger of relegation, is hoping for a phone call from Old Trafford. His future could point to Serie A unless United make one last attempt, and Casemiro reportedly supports this potential signing as well.
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