Manchester United have identified a three-man shortlist to replace the departing veteran Casemiro this summer. While the Red Devils have reportedly cooled their interest in Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, they are instead focusing on Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, and Sandro Tonali as priority targets to bolster their engine room for next season.

Newcastle midfielder Tonali has emerged as a top target after receiving a green light from captain Bruno Fernandes. Newcastle are braced for a formal approach and could demand up to £100million for the Italian, who has been described by club legend Paul Scholes as a superior option to Arsenal’s Declan Rice.

To lower the £78m asking price for Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde, United may include Marcus Rashford in a part-exchange deal. Rashford has impressed while on loan at the Nou Camp, and using him as a makeweight in an exciting summer deal could help Michael Carrick’s side secure a long-term solution for their defensive left flank.

United are plotting a surprise move for Arsenal’s versatile youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly as summer plans take shape. With Lewis-Skelly falling down the pecking order in North London, the Red Devils hope to lure the 19-year-old to Old Trafford to provide competition for the injury-prone Luke Shaw.

After four years at the club, Casemiro will depart Old Trafford when his contract expires this June. The club have agreed to scrap a clause in his contract which would trigger a one-year extension if the Brazilian made 35 starts this season.

Manager Michael Carrick is overseeing a significant squad overhaul as the club nears Champions League qualification. By moving on high earners like Casemiro, Jadon Sancho, and Marcus Rashford, the club aims tobring in younger, elite talents who can sustain a top-five Premier League finish and compete in Europe.