Manchester United have been urged to replace Casemiro with Bruno Guimarães this summer, with Louis Saha branding the Newcastle midfielder the “perfect” successor in the Red Devils’ engine room.
Casemiro is expected to leave Old Trafford when his contract expires at the end of the 2025/26 season, bringing an end to a mixed but influential spell in Manchester.
Casemiro exit leaves major gap at Manchester United
The Brazilian has been a central figure since arriving from Real Madrid in 2022, but his departure now appears inevitable.
Speaking recently, Casemiro said: “I will carry Manchester United with me throughout my entire life… It is not time to say goodbye; there are many more memories to create during the next four months.”
Despite that message, planning for his replacement is already underway.
Bruno Guimarães named as ‘perfect’ Casemiro replacement
Former United striker Louis Saha believes Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimarães fits the profile.
“I’ve always been a big fan and defender of Casemiro,” Saha said.
“He was asked to do one too many roles in the last two years but that’s been cut and now he’s settled and his role is defined.”
However, Saha insists United need a dominant midfield presence moving forward.
“United need aggressiveness and someone that will dictate the midfield. I see someone more like Tonali or Guimarães who are two monsters in midfield.
“With players like Mainoo, you need someone alongside him who has the experience and vision to manage the transition when Casemiro goes.”
| Midfield Comparison | Profile |
|---|---|
| Casemiro | Defensive anchor, experience, leadership |
| Bruno Guimarães | Box-to-box control, captaincy, aggression |
| Sandro Tonali | Deep-lying playmaker, intensity |
source: public interviews – February 2026
Why Guimarães makes sense
Guimarães combines leadership, technical quality and Premier League experience. As Newcastle’s captain, he has shown the ability to dictate tempo while contributing defensively and offensively.
Saha added: “When Casemiro goes I think a combination of Wharton and Guimarães would be great because Guimarães is more of a captain.”
With Kobbie Mainoo developing rapidly, United’s midfield rebuild appears focused on balance rather than simply youth.
Key Insights
- Casemiro expected to leave this summer.
- Louis Saha backs Bruno Guimarães as replacement.
- United prioritising experience alongside Mainoo.
- Newcastle unlikely to negotiate easily.
What’s Next
Manchester United’s summer strategy will hinge on Champions League qualification and financial flexibility.
Newcastle are unlikely to sell cheaply, particularly given Guimarães’ leadership role. Any deal would likely require a significant fee north of £80m.
Will United invest heavily in a proven Premier League captain, or opt for a younger rebuild?
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