Manchester United have set their sights on Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye as the ideal candidate to fill the void left by Casemiro next season.
Pape Gueye Identified as the Perfect Number Six to Replace Casemiro
According to Foot Mercato, the Red Devils view the Senegalese star as the perfect fit for the number six role as they prepare for a significant squad overhaul this summer.
The club has already confirmed that Casemiro will depart Old Trafford when his contract officially expires on June 30.
With the Brazilian’s exit confirmed, United are wasting no time in lining up potential successors. Gueye now emerges as a primary target, with the club hierarchy holding him in ‘high regard.’
The 26-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable career revival at Villarreal since joining on a free transfer.
The Yellow Submarine are currently pushing for Champions League qualification, but that success could come at a cost.
United plan to test their resolve with a ‘very tempting’ offer for the former Marseille man.
Transfermarkt currently values Gueye at approximately £17.5 million. However, United may need to table a package worth around £25 million to convince the La Liga side to part ways with their midfield enforcer this summer.
Gueye brings exactly what United need in the engine room. He excels in duels, makes consistent ball recoveries, and provides the defensive screen that the team will lose with Casemiro’s departure.
His physical approach and experience make him a low-risk option compared to other expensive targets.
The Red Devils could actually sign two holding midfielders before the next campaign begins.
While Gueye fits the profile of a solid backup or rotational piece, the club also wants a marquee name. Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson features high on that list as a potential long-term starter.
Manuel Ugarte’s situation adds further complexity to United’s plans. Ajax pursued the Uruguayan on loan earlier this year, and he may push for an exit after playing second fiddle to Casemiro this term.
United currently sit fourth in the standings and look well-placed to secure European football for 2026/27.
A larger squad will prove essential to handle the extra workload, and Gueye represents smart, affordable business to bolster their depth without breaking the bank.
