This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Man Utd can replace Casemiro with Amadou Onana. (Image: Getty)
Manchester United have reportedly received a significant boost to their interest in Everton midfielder Amadou Onana ahead of the summer transfer window. The Toffees are said to have locked in on a replacement as they prepare to cash in on Onana, and United are expected to be in the frame.
Erik ten Hag is set to address his midfield for a third successive summer, with multiple members of his current engine room likely to depart.
Casemiro is expected to depart just two years after his £70million arrival if interest from Saudi Arabia becomes concrete.
Christian Eriksen, Donny van de Beek and Hannibal Mejbri are also reportedly in the shop window, leaving room for at least one new arrival.
Previous reports suggest that Onana is firmly on United's radar as a like-for-like replacement for Casemiro, who, aged just 22, can anchor the midfield for many years to come.
And the window of opportunity has opened wide for the Red Devils ahead of the end of the season as Everton close in on their successor.
According to The Sun, Everton are leading Crystal Palace and Newcastle United in the race to sign Freiburg midfielder Merlin Rohl this summer.
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Everton are leading the race for Merlin Rohl. (Image: Getty)
The 21-year-old has impressed in the Bundesliga and the Europa League this season, and he is said to be valued at just £12m.
Rohl, a Germany U21 international, boasts a similar size and style to Onana, who Everton may hope by selling can ease restrictions imposed by Financial Fair Play and the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules.
The report adds that the Goodison Park club want to raise in excess of £50m from Onana's sale, and that they would prefer him to join an overseas club.
But the Belgium international would be tempted if the opportunity to form a new-look United midfield at the start of a new era under Sir Jim Ratcliffe's INEOS regime arose.
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
United are also reportedly interested in Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite, who has caught the eye in his first full season as a Premier League regular.
The left-sided centre-back could be available for around £70m, but the chances of Everton sanctioning handing both players over to Old Trafford in the same transfer window seems unlikely.
It's clear to see why Ten Hag is claimed to be attracted to Onana's attributes; they are those of a younger, more athletic Casemiro.
And Everton's fortune in their pursuit of Rohl could determine whether a deal to lure Onana to M16 is straightforward or complicated.
