Romano's Man Utd bomb: Casemiro's 'likely destination' and the player to replace him

Updated: 8 May 2024 07:48 BST
3 min read

Fabrizio Romano has outlined the “likely destination” of Casemiro in the summer and has revealed the player who Manchester United are looking at to replace the Brazil international.

Casemiro’s position at Man Utd has come in for renewed criticism after a catastrophic performance in Monday’s 4-0 loss against Crystal Palace. Playing at centre-back, the veteran looked out of his depth and lost.

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Just 12 months ago, the former Real Madrid player was being lauded as of the few Red Devils worthy of the squad yet now the picture could scarcely be more different, with his departure from Old Trafford now widely expected.

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Romano has outlined the position of the midfielder.

“We already heard some stories back in November, but there were never any concrete proposals at the time. This could change in the summer as Manchester United are anticipating some interest, particularly from Saudi clubs, for Casemiro,” he told the Daily Briefing.

“The expectation now is for the club and the player to part ways. Of course we’ll have to see what kind of proposals come in, and if they’re good enough for Casemiro and for Man Utd, but there is a possibility for him to leave this summer, and Saudi looks a likely destination.”

© IMAGO - Casemiro endured a nightmare against Crystal Palace on Monday

Joao Neves to replace Casemiro?

Benfica midfielder Joao Neves is one of two players Romano has confirmed Man Utd are watching at the Portuguese club and could offer a replacement for Casemiro deep in midfield. The Red Devils also want promising young centre-back Antonio Silva.

He says: “I’m also aware of fresh reports on United and Benfica duo Joao Neves and Antonio Silva. Man United have scouted both players for months but we should also remember that that both are going to be very expensive.

“So far, there have been no official bids for Neves or Silva yet but it’s going to be really open in the summer. Reports in Portugal say that Silva is more likely to be Benfica’s big sale, rather than Neves, but my understanding is that it’s open and depends on the proposals that come in.”