Ten Hag’s Midfield Target: Youssouf Fofana
Erik ten Hag has reportedly identified AS Monaco midfielder Youssouf Fofana as a prime candidate to succeed Casemiro at Manchester United. With uncertainty surrounding the Brazilian’s future at Old Trafford beyond this season, the Dutch manager is eager to bolster the midfield and has placed Fofana high on his list of potential recruits.
Casemiro, who signed a contract keeping him at United until 2026, has struggled to replicate the form that made him such an integral part of the team during his first campaign in 2022/23. Injuries have been a significant factor, with a hamstring problem sidelining the 32-year-old from October 2023 to January 2024, causing him to miss 17 matches.
In the recent 2-0 victory over Everton, Casemiro’s uncharacteristic display saw him lose possession six times in the opening stages, leading 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo to take control of the midfield. With many fans suggesting the veteran has lost his sharpness, speculation over a summer move to Saudi Arabia, where he could reunite with Cristiano Ronaldo, has intensified. Removing his £350,000-a-week wages from the payroll would also align with new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s plans. Fofana, a 25-year-old French international with 15 caps, has made 23 Ligue 1 starts this season and could provide the dynamic presence needed in United’s midfield moving forward.
Barcelona End Interest in Greenwood
Barcelona have reportedly cooled their interest in Mason Greenwood due to concerns over his expected transfer fee and the potential backlash from supporters, according to Times Sport. The decision echoes the dilemma faced by Manchester United, who opted not to reintegrate the forward into their squad last summer after receiving significant opposition from fans.
Initially, there were suggestions that Greenwood would return to United for the 2023/24 season, but the club reversed course in response to public outcry. Greenwood’s career has been overshadowed by serious legal issues after he was charged with attempted rape, coercive behaviour, and assault in early 2022. Though the charges were dropped in February 2023 after key witnesses withdrew and new evidence emerged, the controversy surrounding him has made it difficult for top European clubs to consider signing him.
Greenwood has performed reasonably well during his loan spell in La Liga, registering six goals and five assists in 23 appearances. While Barcelona have withdrawn their interest, Atletico Madrid remain keen on the 22-year-old. United are reportedly hoping to receive around £43 million for the academy graduate when he returns to Manchester this summer, as they look to recoup some value from a player once touted as a future star.