It is not very often a move elsewhere in the Premier League catches our attention. This one has, because the repercussions are positive for Manchester United.
One of Manchester United’s big objectives this summer is to cash in on midfielder Casemiro, who is two years into an expensive four-year contract.
Manchester United’s highest earner is difficult to shift, evidenced by a lack of offers so far. Casemiro’s talks with Bayern Munich ended almost immediately.
One hope is that the Saudi Pro League come calling. French newspaper L’Equipe reported last week that Al-Ittihad have shown interest in Casemiro.
- READ MORE: Manchester United confirmed signings, transfers in, out, loan exits, releases for 2024/25
Ngolo Kante move can open Casemiro spot
Now, we may some action, courtesy of West Ham. According to The Guardian, new Hammers boss Julien Lopetegui wants to bring Ngolo Kante back to the Premier League.
The newspaper report West Ham are now in talks to buy Kante for a fee of £20 million, with the French midfielder, 33, open to a move.
Who does Kante play for? That’s right, he is the key midfielder for Al-Ittihad.
Join the dots, and it looks like Al-Ittihad are creating space in the team for Casemiro, freeing up salary, and raising extra transfer funds.
It’s all coming together. Who would have thought that an Ngolo Kante move in 2024 would have such a positive impact for Manchester United?
Casemiro exit can allow Ugarte move
It’s all a bit like transfer dominos. Kante to West Ham leads to Casemiro to Al-Ittihad, which leads to Manuel Ugarte to Manchester United.
PSG will no doubt add a midfielder of their own after that too.
Gone are the days where United target big name players like Casemiro, or Kante, who are in their 30s. New investors Ineos have drawn a line under that.
23-year-old Uruguay international Manuel Ugarte is the club’s top midfield target.
Last night Fabrizio Romano reported Ugarte has agreed personal terms to move to Manchester United.
After spending big on Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro, United will need to sell to buy. That’s why cashing in on Casemiro is tied into Ugarte’s arrival, in addition to creating space in the team.
West Ham’s surprise move for Kante could create a path for Ugarte to make his own move to Old Trafford.