Casemiro has previously praised three potential successors and has high hopes for the future of Manchester United’s midfield. The Brazilian will bid farewell to Old Trafford after the season’s final game away at Brighton, ending his four-year association with United.
Casemiro was a hugely successful player at Real Madrid, arriving at the club having won every major accolade available in Spain. He established himself as one of the most highly regarded defensive midfielders of his generation, winning an impressive five Champions League titles with the La Liga giants.
However, when the time came for him to leave Madrid emotionally, the 34-year-old expressed confidence that those who will wear his shoes in the engine room have the ability to bury that emotion.
Three young talents were tasked with replacing the central midfield players: Aurelien Choameny, Eduardo Camavinga and Federico Valverde. Remarkably, this same trio have been linked with a move to United as Casemiro’s successor.
Valverde is thought to have fallen out of favor at Madrid after a training ground altercation with teammate Choameni. According to reports, club officials are extremely dissatisfied with the 27-year-old and could consider letting him go when the summer transfer window opens.
A firm relationship between United and Valverde has yet to materialize, and given that his contract runs until 2029, the transfer fee is expected to be high. Casemiro believes the Uruguayan is a good fit for the club, following his previous comments about how talented he was from an early age.
After leaving Madrid in 2022, the Brazilian said: “Real Madrid always signs the best players. Fede can do this job and he is a player who is looking ahead 10 or 12 years. Four or five years ago, I said that we have one of the best midfields in the world. Fede can play as a defensive midfielder.”
Camavinga is another talent Madrid are open to making an offer, although he hasn’t featured much in recent months. United are rumored to be interested in signing the France international who was left out of the World Cup squad.
He is also accompanied by Choameni, who is rumored to be moving to Old Trafford in the summer. United’s rivals Manchester City could be key to the deal as Madrid consider signing Rodri.
The City midfielder has just over a year left on his contract at the Etihad and previously admitted he “couldn’t turn down the best club in the world” when discussing a move to his home country.
A move for Rodri to the La Liga heavyweights could open up an opportunity for United to acquire Choameni’s services. Casemiro has previously praised the French pair, insisting he leaves the club in “good condition” for the future.
He added: “Camavinga showed us last year that he can be a great player. Choameni is a well-known player at this club and is also a starter for the French national team. Real Madrid are in good form and have good players.”
All three of United’s targets are enthusiastically supported by the outgoing player, Casemiro. However, all of Madrid’s current stars will command a significant price tag.
