Manchester United may be forced to look for alternatives after missing out on one of their midfield targets.
It is the worst-kept secret in world football that Manchester United are on the hunt for several new central midfielders this summer.
Casemiro's exit upon the expiry of his contract will be a big blow to Michael Carrick, who has now been confirmed as United's new full-time head coach, especially given that the Brazilian has netted nine goals this campaign. With Manuel Ugarte likely to leave, too, United will need at least two new defensive midfielders.
However, United are also lacking a recognised backup for Kobbie Mainoo, with Mason Mount being the only other player capable of dropping back into the double pivot. So, Director of Football Jason Wilcox will be very busy this summer.
Ederson currently seems like the most likely midfielder to move to Old Trafford after agreeing on personal terms with the club in recent days. Many expect the 26-year-old to join as a backup for a more high-profile addition later in the window.
United set to miss on Scott
Alex Scott is one of the many midfielders who have been linked with a move to Manchester this summer, and Michael Carrick is said to "love" him, but one of the few to have Premier League experience. This could have given him an advantage, but it seems United may have missed their chance.
BBC Sport have reported that AFC Bournemouth are looking to renew the contracts of Eli Junior Kroupi, Rayan, and Alex Scott this summer after qualifying for the Europa League.
Scott already has a contract until 2028, but offering the Englishman a new deal could force interested parties to look elsewhere.
The 22-year-old would have provided solid competition for Kobbie Mainoo, as the more creative option in the middle of the park, but it seems United will have to explore other options.
For that role, United have been heavily linked with West Ham United's Mateus Fernandes, who now seems destined to leave the club after suffering relegation from the Premier League. He was also relegated last season with Southampton.
United must focus on defensive midfielder first
While the midfield as a whole has to be United's priority this summer, more specifically, it needs to be the defensive midfield spot - the people who will replace Casemiro and Ugarte.
Mainoo needs another player to compete and rotate with, but Michael Carrick currently does not have a defensive midfielder to choose from. As it stands, it would be Mason Mount and Mainoo playing in the double pivot for the first game next season, with Tyler Fletcher as the first backup.
Jason Wilcox's first deals of the summer transfer window have to be the first and second choice defensive midfielders, then followed by a more creative engine room player.
It is also important not to forget that United will be looking at left-wingers, left-backs and goalkeepers ahead of next season.
There are lots of deals that need to be done. United cannot take too long.
