Talks held: Man Utd identify £61m star as prime target to replace Casemiro, could be agent-driven

Manchester United have identified Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes as the prime target to replace Casemiro during the summer transfer window, according to UOL Esporte.

The Red Devils are poised to reinforce their midfield department at the end of the season. Casemiro is confirmed to leave the Mancunian giants when his contract expires this summer.

United are exploring solutions to fill the void left by the Brazilian star, and UOL claim that Guimaraes is the ‘main objective’ to replace his compatriot when the transfer window reopens.

The club have already held talks with the player’s representatives. It is claimed that a package worth £61 million could be sufficient to prise him away from the Magpies later this year.

Guimaraes story could be agent-driven

The former Lyon man has established himself as one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League. He is presently on the sidelines with a hamstring problem.

The Brazilian is expected to return at some point next month and could play a huge role for his country at the World Cup this summer. Guimaraes may want clarity over his club future before.

United have now been linked with the 28-year-old. The Audax graduate has had another top season with the Magpies, and has won almost six duels per league game alongside five recoveries and two tackles.

He has also been a huge influence in the final third with 13 goal contributions in the league. His distribution has likewise been effective with a passing accuracy of around 86 percent.

Despite this, we don’t believe United will spend £61m on a midfielder who will turn 29 this year.

The hierarchy have focused on young players or those entering their prime. With Guimaraes, he could be past his best in the next few years and may not provide the club with resale value.

Taking this into account, United are more likely to focus on his younger teammate, Sandro Tonali, than on him. The speculation could be agent-driven to secure him a bigger payday at Newcastle.

Reputed journalist Andy Mitten has likewise said that he has not heard any genuine interest from United in Guimaraes this year, and the speculation might be agent-driven to finalise a new deal.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .