BREAKING NEWS‼️ Coming live from Old Trafford, Bayern Munich star on his way to Old Trafford after club signs his replacement. Manchester United and Bayern Munich star agree personal terms.

During Erik ten Hag’s first season, Casemiro played a key role in strengthening United’s defense, which was vital for their third-place Premier League finish and Carabao Cup win. Yet, last season, Casemiro’s form dropped significantly, contributing to United’s difficulties both domestically and in Europe.

Casemiro moved to United from Real Madrid in a £70m transfer in 2022. Considering his recent performance, United should look to recover as much of that investment as possible in this summer’s transfer window. His showing at center-back towards the season’s end, notably in the 4-0 defeat to Crystal Palace, received heavy criticism. Jamie Carragher’s harsh evaluation, shared on Sky Sports, echoed the sentiments of many United fans, marking a rare moment of agreement with a Liverpool legend.

Casemiro’s defensive mistakes in that game, particularly his failed challenge that led to Michael Olise’s first goal and his dispossession for the second, underscored his decline. His struggles emphasized the need for United to focus on securing a high-quality replacement this summer.

United require a new No. 6 to pair with Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes. Mainoo has emerged as one of Europe’s brightest young talents, and Fernandes has consistently created more key chances than any other Premier League player since his January 2020 arrival. A dependable defensive midfielder is the missing element in United’s midfield setup.However, finding the ideal successor to Casemiro is difficult. United’s budget constraints prevent them from spending as liberally as in past summers, and top defensive midfielders are always in high demand. United likely regret not acquiring Declan Rice when they had the opportunity, and players like Joshua Kimmich are now beyond reach following United’s eighth-place league finish.

Instead, United could target players Bayern Munich are interested in. Bayern’s pursuit of Fulham’s Joao Palhinha presents a potential opportunity. Palhinha nearly joined Bayern last summer, but the deal fell through. Fulham are willing to sell him for the right price, and United could outbid Bayern, particularly if they sell Casemiro to fund the deal. Palhinha, proven in the Premier League and available at a reasonable fee, would be a wise addition to United’s squad.

Reports indicate Bayern’s latest offer for Palhinha was about €45m (£38m), and United could exceed this bid. If United offload Casemiro, they could reinvest the funds in acquiring Palhinha. This summer might see a Brazilian midfielder leave United, only to be replaced by another.Casemiro’s initial impact at Manchester United was undeniably crucial, especially during Erik ten Hag’s first season, where his defensive prowess helped secure a third-place finish in the Premier League and a Carabao Cup victory. However, his form dipped significantly last season, culminating in high-profile errors, such as those in the 4-0 defeat to Crystal Palace, which underscored the urgent need for a defensive overhaul. This decline has led to calls for United to recoup as much of their £70m investment as possible by selling Casemiro in the current transfer window.

United’s focus should now be on identifying a reliable No. 6 to pair with Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes. Mainoo’s rise as a young talent and Fernandes’ consistent creativity make a strong defensive midfielder essential for a balanced midfield. Given budget constraints and the high demand for top-tier defensive midfielders, targeting more affordable yet proven players is a strategic move.

Joao Palhinha from Fulham emerges as a viable candidate. His near-transfer to Bayern Munich last summer, which fell through, indicates his readiness for a move to a bigger club. Fulham’s willingness to sell for the right price, combined with United’s need for a dependable defensive midfielder, makes Palhinha an attractive option. With Bayern Munich’s latest offer for Palhinha reportedly around €45m (£38m), United could potentially outbid them, especially if they generate funds by selling Casemiro.

This strategy not only addresses the immediate need for a quality defensive midfielder but also ensures a smooth transition by bringing in a player with Premier League experience. Palhinha’s addition could help stabilize United’s midfield, making up for the loss of Casemiro while supporting Mainoo and Fernandes in their respective roles.