Manchester United are pressing ahead with plans to secure a third midfielder to complete their rebuild.
Keen to provide Michael Carrick with an engine room he can trust, INEOS have already landed Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.
Yet, even after those signings, there remains a sense that the midfield is not fully complete.
Carrick now has technically gifted options at his disposal, but what he still lacks is a true defensive midfielder—a midfield destroyer for the tougher fixtures.
Search for third midfielder
Quality number sixes such as Aurelien Tchouameni and Manu Kone are being linked. However, neither move appears straightforward.
Tchouameni has just agreed a new long‑term deal, making a summer sale unlikely. As for Kone, his asking price could prove problematic, with AS Roma expected to demand a premium after his impressive World Cup run.
Consequently, United have begun to weigh up alternatives.
Man United eye Danilo
One of those alternatives is Botafogo’s Danilo Santos. The 25‑year‑old returned to Brazil last summer after leaving Nottingham Forest and has since flourished.
Initially known as a defensive midfielder during his Premier League stint, he has now showcased his all‑round qualities.
In 12 games before the World Cup, Danilo scored seven goals and provided two assists, unlocking the offensive side of his game.
Although he failed to shine on the world stage, his domestic form has left Botafogo in a difficult position. The club are resigned to losing him but cannot demand an inflated fee.
Brazilian journalist Eduardo Burgos explained: “Botafogo prefers to sell abroad after rejecting a $30m‑plus‑bonuses offer from Verdão (Palmeiras). He has a €20m release clause for foreign clubs.”
A deal too good to ignore
At roughly £17 million, Danilo represents a bargain United can scarcely overlook. He is proving himself a complete midfielder, fits the age profile INEOS favour, and already has Premier League experience.
Moving swiftly to secure him could not only fill Casemiro’s void but also free up significant funds for further reinforcements for a left-back and an attacker.
Featured image Michael Owens via Getty Images
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