Erik ten Hag identifies Premier League star to replace Casemiro

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag is an admirer of Southampton star Romeo Lavia and views the midfielder as a potential long-term replacement for Casemiro.

The Red Devils spent £60m on Real Madrid star Casemiro last summer and he’s enjoyed an impressive debut campaign at Old Trafford.

While Casemiro is arguably the first name on the teamsheet, the Brazilian is 30 years of age.

Casemiro signed a four-year deal on his arrival but Ten Hag is already looking at signing a new midfielder this summer, such has been the drop-off in performances when Casemiro is not in the side.

Lavia, 19, came through Anderlecht’s academy before joining Manchester City in 2020 and he joined Southampton two years later.

City included a 20% sell-on fee and a buyback clause in the deal, and Lavia is already attracting attention from across Europe.

According to the Independent, Ten Hag sees Lavia as a long-term replacement for Casemiro and is keeping an eye on the midfielder’s development.

United have other priorities this summer, with Ten Hag keen to sign a top centre forward, a right-back and a ready-made midfielder.

But much could depend on a protracted takeover of the club.

A deadline for a third round of bids is set for 10pm on Friday night.

Sheikh Jassim has vowed to clear the club’s debt and has outbid his main rival, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, for 100% ownership of the club.

However, Ratcliffe has offered the Glazers a chance to remain at the club as long as he has a majority controlling share.

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