Man Utd's next two transfers may be off as Erik ten Hag 'forms surprise back-up plan'

Erik ten Hag talking in Man Utd training. (Image: Getty)

Casemiro is increasingly likely to start Manchester United's Premier League opener against Fulham on August 16, with a summer exit yet to come to fruition, according to reports. The Brazilian midfielder was widely expected to leave Old Trafford following a dismal second season amid strong interest from Saudi Arabia.

However, no suitable offers have landed at United's door, and the prospect of him staying put beyond the summer is a growing possibility.

Casemiro has captained the Red Devils in the first half of their three pre-season games against Rosenborg, Rangers and Arsenal.

Related articles Man Utd's £2bn Old Trafford stadium plan as confirmation timeline emerges Man Utd stance on signing Ivan Toney after 'asking price slashed by £30m'

Erik ten Hag's desire to recruit a new midfield partner for Kobbie Mainoo has become clear, though, with Paris Saint-Germain's Manuel Ugarte a top target.

function loadOvpScript(){let el=document.createElement('script');el.setAttribute('src','https://live.primis.tech/live/liveView.php?s=114291&playerApiId=v114291');document.getElementById('ovp-primis').appendChild(el)} window.top.addEventListener('primisPlayerInit',e=>{try{if(e.detail&&e.detail.playerApiId==="v114291"){if(window.document.getElementsByClassName('jwplayer')[0]){e.detail.float('disable')}}}catch(e){}});window.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded',()=>{setTimeout(()=>{if(typeof flagTcfLoaded!=='undefined'&&flagTcfLoaded===!0){loadOvpScript() ExpressApp.Log('[Load] OVP flagTcfLoaded',new Date())}else{document.addEventListener("tcfLoaded",()=>{loadOvpScript() ExpressApp.Log('[Load] OVP tcfLoaded',new Date())})}},1500)})

United have reportedly agreed personal terms with Ugarte, who has informed PSG of his desire to make the switch.

But any deal is expected to rest on Casemiro's future amid financial limitations imposed by the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules.

United have splashed £88.5million to sign striker Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna and centre-back Leny Yoro from Lille.

The M16 giants have also raised just under £50m through player sales, including offloading Mason Greenwood to Marseille in a £27m deal.

Casemiro could start for Man Utd vs Fulham. (Image: Getty) Stay up-to-date with the latest Man Utd news Join us on WhatsApp

Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

Their exploits have left INEOS in a position where they need to sell to buy further players to bolster Ten Hag's options.

According to GIVEMESPORT, figures close to United are increasingly confident that the 32-year-old will be in Ten Hag's chosen line-up against Fulham at Old Trafford in just over two weeks.

It's claimed that Casemiro is primed to start for the fourth successive pre-season game against Real Betis in San Diego on Thursday.

His prominent role in United's preparations is said to be due to Ten Hag wanting to ensure he's as sharp as possible to start from the off when the curtain raises on the Premier League campaign.

SUBSCRIBE Invalid email

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

Related articles Arsenal and Man Utd target chooses next club as Edu holds transfer talks Man Utd have saved millions on INEOS's next signing after £16m transfer collapse Ruud van Nistelrooy tipped to 'go against' Ten Hag in telling Man Utd verdict

Casemiro's exit would've triggered United to accelerate their efforts to recruit Ugarte, but for now, both transfers are off the cards.

Elsewhere, United have reportedly agreed a £15m deal with Bayern Munich for right-back Noussair Mazraoui, who has given the club his preference ahead of leaving the Allianz Arena.

But no transfer will go through before Aaron Wan-Bissaka leaves, with West Ham United thought to be advancing their efforts to seal his signature.

United have also been tipped to sign a left-sided defender to provide Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw cover, with Tyrell Malacia's 14-month injury spell showing no signs of ending soon.

Related articles Man Utd reach agreement, Arsenal's second signing nears, De Gea talks collapse AC Milan star signs and Antony sold - How Man Utd can unlock Rashford

Man Utd's next two transfers may be off as Erik ten Hag 'forms surprise back-up plan'

Man Utd's next two transfers may be off as Erik ten Hag 'forms surprise back-up plan'

Man Utd's next two transfers may be off as Erik ten Hag 'forms surprise back-up plan'

Man Utd's next two transfers may be off as Erik ten Hag 'forms surprise back-up plan'

Man Utd's next two transfers may be off as Erik ten Hag 'forms surprise back-up plan'