Manchester United have shown a particularly keen interest in Brazilian stars in their attempts to overhaul their midfield.
Jason Wilcox initially agreed a deal to sign Atalanta’s physically dominant midfielder Ederson to replace Casemiro. However, that move did not progress any further than medical tests.
United quickly secured the services of Andrey Santos and even explored the possibility of signing Joao Gomes, but the Brazilian has now joined Aston Villa.
Manchester United keen on Danilo
According to The BBC, Manchester United have expressed an interest in Botafogo midfielder Danilo.
Danilo has experience of English football under his belt; however, his stint at Nottingham Forest was underwhelming. After two seasons, the dynamic midfielder returned to Brazil to join Botafogo last year.
In his home country, the 25-year-old Samba star rediscovered his confidence and flair, impressing with Botafogo and earning a place in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the World Cup.
Known for his powerful runs, ball-carrying and exceptional work rate, the number eight has been directly involved in 13 goals in 24 appearances for the Brazilian outfit.
Danilo Santos Stats: 2026
| Competition | Appearances | Starts | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards | Red Cards | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Campeonato Brasileiro Série A | 12 | 12 | 7 | 2 | 1 | - | 1,071' |
| Campeonato Carioca | 4 | 3 | - | - | - | - | 256' |
| Copa Sudamericana | 3 | 2 | 2 | - | - | - | 213' |
| Copa Libertadores | 3 | 3 | 1 | 1 | - | - | 270' |
| Copa do Brasil | 2 | 2 | - | - | - | - | 180' |
| Campeonato Carioca - Taça Rio | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Total | 24 | 22 | 10 | 3 | 1 | - | 1,990' |
It is claimed Danilo is considering his next move after his club received offers of about £25 million from Palmeiras and Zenit St Petersburg. United and Newcastle United are also thought to have the midfielder on their shortlists.
Botafogo are reportedly keen to sell him abroad amid interest from Palmeiras, who are pushing hardest to complete a deal.
Andrey Santos shines in Manchester United debut
His compatriot, Andrey Santos, made his debut for United in a friendly against Wrexham last week. The former Chelsea midfielder earned plaudits for his positional awareness at the base of United’s midfield.
United head coach Michael Carrick was pleased with what he saw from Santos, highlighting his promising link-up play with Mason Mount.
“There’s loads of little positives to take from the game. I thought Andrey and Mason Mount did some really good things and connected really well. I could see some positives there,” Carrick told MUTV.
Featured image Michael Owens via Getty Images
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