Louis Saha urging Manchester United to target Sandro Tonali or Bruno Guimaraes as Casemiro replacements suggests United will prioritise an experienced defensive midfielder this summer — bettors may shorten odds on United signing a proven holding mid, favouring markets for Guimaraes or Tonali arrivals.
United urged to pursue Tonali or Bruno if Casemiro leaves
Manchester United face a summer rebuild in midfield if Casemiro departs when his contract runs out. Former striker Louis Saha has named Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes as prime candidates to fill the role, arguing the Red Devils need experience and presence alongside emerging talents such as Kobbie Mainoo.
Saha: experience and aggression are non-negotiable
Saha stressed Casemiro’s value while acknowledging that United must prepare for life without him. "He’s proved he’s a world-class player," Saha said, but added that United "need aggressiveness and someone that will dictate the midfield." He described Tonali and Guimaraes as "two monsters in midfield" who could offer the directness, experience and leadership required to steady United's centre of the park.
Transfer landscape: other names and Tonali’s situation
Several younger midfielders have been linked to United in recent months, including Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton. Saha warned a purely youth-focused approach could disrupt the transition, recommending mixes such as Wharton paired with a seasoned operator like Guimaraes.
Tonali’s future has been the subject of speculation. His representative has indicated that Newcastle will evaluate options at season’s end and that the club is unlikely to let him go mid-campaign, making a summer move the most realistic window.
What this means for recruitment strategy
The message is clear: United should prioritise a defensive, ball-winning midfielder with leadership qualities to protect younger playmakers and manage transitions. A single marquee signing or a blended approach (experienced anchor plus promising youngster) would both address tactical and dressing-room needs.
Betting implications for punters
News that United are targeting experienced defensive midfielders should influence transfer markets.
Expect shortened odds for Manchester United to sign a proven holding midfielder this summer, and for markets naming likely signings to shift in favour of established names like Bruno Guimaraes or Sandro Tonali over unproven youngsters.
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Bettors might also consider contingency markets (e.g., "first signing in midfield" or "United to sign a player from Newcastle") as bookmakers react to negotiation developments.
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