Transfers: Manchester United eye Nigerian star as Casemiro replacement

Manchester United are considering a move for Super Eagles midfielder Wilfried Ndidi as a potential replacement for Casemiro ahead of the new season, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Red Devils are planning for life after the experienced Brazilian, who left the club following the expiration of his contract at the end of last season.

The 34-year-old arrived at Old Trafford in 2022 after a hugely successful spell at Real Madrid and quickly established himself as a key figure in United's midfield. During his time at the club, he helped the Red Devils win the FA Cup and the EFL Cup.

Manchester United have also identified Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen as their dream target and have now been linked with a move for Ndidi this summer.

Manchester United revive interest in Wilfred Ndidi

According to The Peoples Person, Manchester United have revived their interest in Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi as they continue their search for Casemiro's successor.

The three-time European champions have already missed out on some of their preferred midfield targets this summer, with Elliott Anderson joining Manchester City, while Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali have also completed moves to Tottenham Hotspur.

This situation has forced the club into another search for alternatives and the Red Devils have now revived their pursuit of Ndidi. They were also linked with the Nigerian midfielder last summer when he was keen on leaving Leicester City, but a move never materialized and he ended up at Besiktas.

While Ndidi was one of the Turkish club's most influential players last season, a managerial change has cast doubt over his future, with interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia and also from Hull City.

Why Ndidi has become a top target for Manchester United

The future of the Super Eagles captain has been the subject of speculations and has been linked with a move away from Besiktas, who are willing to listen to offers and have already placed a valuation of €8 million on the 29-year-old.

Manchester United have long admired Ndidi and after missing out on their preferred choices, they have now turned their attention back to the Super Eagles star.

The Nigerian captain is a more affordable option than many of the midfielders the Red Devils were initially monitoring and his wealth of experience in the Premier League also makes him a very attractive option in midfield. 

During his time at Leicester City, he made well over 200 appearances and established himself as one of the league's most reliable defensive midfielders. Casemiro's departure has created a huge void in the midfield and Ndidi possesses the ability and experience to bring stability to the team. 

The Nigerian midfielder is also readily available this summer, although Manchester United are expected to face competition for his signature.

Meanwhile, the prospect of returning to the Premier League and joining one of England’s biggest clubs could be very appealing to Ndidi. He would also have the chance to compete in the UEFA Champions League and play a major role in Manchester United’s title challenge next season.

Should an agreement be reached between all parties, Ndidi would become only the second Nigerian player to represent Manchester United after Odion Ighalo.