Man Utd shortlist three midfield targets to replace Casemiro

Manchester United are stepping up plans to replace Casemiro this summer, with the club now narrowing their midfield shortlist to three key targets.

The Brazil international is expected to leave Old Trafford at the end of the 2025/26 season, prompting the club to accelerate their search for a long-term successor.

According to reports, Manchester United have reduced their list of midfield targets to three leading options:

• Sandro Tonali (Newcastle United)
• Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest)
• Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace)

This development comes after weeks of speculation linking the club with a wide range of midfielders.

From recent transfer developments we’ve covered, United’s recruitment strategy has shifted towards more defined profiles rather than a broad search.

Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes had been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford, with earlier claims suggesting personal terms had been agreed.

However, those reports have since been dismissed, with sources indicating no such agreement is in place.

There is also a growing belief that Guimaraes could remain at Newcastle, potentially using interest from other clubs to strengthen his current contract situation.

Each of the three identified targets offers a different skillset:

• Tonali brings experience and control from deeper areas
• Anderson offers energy and versatility
• Wharton is viewed as a technically refined option with long-term potential

This suggests United are still assessing the type of midfielder they want to build around moving forward.

Manchester United are expected to continue monitoring their shortlisted targets before making a formal move in the summer transfer window.

The club’s final decision may depend on outgoings, including the future of players like Manuel Ugarte.

With planning already underway, early movement in the market cannot be ruled out.