Manchester United should focus on signing Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz with Casemiro close to moving to the Saudi Pro League.
The Red Devils strengthened their midfield department with Manuel Ugarte last summer, and he has become an undisputed starter under manager Ruben Amorim.
However, the club need more quality and competition in the centre of the park. Casemiro has been a regular on the bench in recent weeks and appears to be ‘very close‘ to leaving the club.
The Brazilian ace has reportedly accepted a salary package from Saudi’s Sovereign Fund (PIF). A transfer could be finalised soon. PIF have to decide on the club before making a formal bid.
While this happens, United have to be proactive in finding a quality replacement.
United may recoup £25 million from Casemiro’s exit, but they could still prefer a temporary deal for a new midfielder with an option to purchase at the end of the campaign.
Ederson is reportedly one of the top targets, but Atalanta are unlikely to sanction his exit as they are competing with Inter Milan for the Scudetto this term.
The club should explore a deal for Juventus’ Douglas Luiz instead. The midfielder had a superb 2023/24 season with Aston Villa, registering 10 goals and 10 assists in 53 outings.
The Midlands outfit still decided to sell him for £42m to Juventus last summer to alleviate concerns about meeting the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability regulations.
His time at the Bianconeri has been forgettable. The 26-year-old was a regular on the bench at the start of the campaign before picking up a muscular injury against Inter Milan in October.
Since his return, he has been limited to substitute appearances under manager Thiago Motta and has already been linked with a possible return to England with Nottingham Forest.
The Red Devils should compete with Forest for Luiz’s signature. He would be a perfect addition on an initial loan as he can operate from multiple midfield positions.
The former Villa star had an 89 percent passing accuracy last term. He won an average of 4.2 duels, made 5.2 recoveries and almost two tackles per game.
Luiz has a terrific work rate and would represent a good acquisition for the Red Devils this winter.
United need to be on the safer side amid his recent injury concerns. An initial loan would allow them to assess whether he can stay unscathed and make a big impression under Amorim.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com.
