Manchester United is accelerating efforts to find a replacement for Casemiro, with positive signs that a Barcelona midfielder is interested.
On 26 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Manchester United moved forward seriously with plans to revamp their midfield after reports from Football Insider revealed that Marc Casado, a rising midfielder at Barcelona, expressed willingness to push for a transfer to Old Trafford.
The 22-year-old player is considered one of Manchester United’s main targets to fill the gap left by Casemiro, who is expected to leave when his contract expires after this season. Strengthening the midfield is the club’s top urgent mission this year.
Previously, Manchester United was linked with several young Premier League midfielders such as Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, and João Gomes, but Casado’s name has recently gained much clearer prominence.
Although praised by staff for his positional awareness, ball interception, and composure, Casado has had limited playing time at Barcelona this season, featuring only 634 minutes in La Liga due to competition from key players like Pedri, Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, and Fermín López.
Sources revealed that Casado desires regular first-team playing opportunities, which Manchester United can clearly provide.
Manchester United views Casado’s profile as matching their long-term plans: young, energetic, strong defensively, good at ball progression, and aggressive in pressing. Additionally, Barcelona’s financial constraints may open the door to negotiating a deal at a reasonable price.
Reports state that Casado’s interest in joining Manchester United is serious, believing this platform will allow him consistent playtime and full development at a high level.