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.