It is believed that Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has urged the club to consider replacing Casemiro with Youssouf Fofana, a midfielder from Monaco.

According to reports, the Red Devils are expected to sign a high-profile defensive midfielder this summer, especially as a key player may depart at the end of the season. Sofyan Amrabat is anticipated to leave when his loan agreement expires, and if the club aims to cut costs, Casemiro might also follow him out.

United is not the only club interested in Fofana; Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain are also reportedly keen on signing the 25-year-old. He could be acquired for around €30 million.

Despite Fofana’s capabilities as a holding midfielder at Monaco, some analysts believe Manchester United should aim higher than him. This season, he has averaged 4.7 duels won and made 1.7 tackles per league game, with a 58% success rate in tackles and an impressive average of 7.4 recoveries.

Fabrizio Romano noted on X that Inter Milan approached AS Monaco for a loan deal with a buy clause for Fofana, while Manchester United made a similar inquiry, both of which were rejected by Monaco.

While Fofana has positive attributes, he struggles with passing accuracy, sitting at only 81%. Additionally, he has been dispossessed an average of 15.1 times per game. Analysts suggest he may not be better than Casemiro in terms of ball distribution and control and might not fit as a regular starter but could serve as a valuable squad player.

If United is serious about securing a top-tier number six, Neves from Benfica should reportedly be their primary target. Despite being only 19, Neves has no apparent weaknesses and could command a significant transfer fee this summer.