Rio Ferdinand has named his three preferred players to replace Casemiro in the heart of Manchester United's midfield.
It is set to be a very busy summer at Old Trafford, with Manchester United expected to sign several players ahead of a return to the Champions League next season.
A new left winger is on the agenda, with the likes of Yan Diomande, Morgan Rogers, Ilman Ndiaye and Rafael Leão all said to be of interest to United.
Left-back is also an area of concern, while a new left-footed defender is also said to be on United's list of priorities. United reportedly hold an interest in Tottenham Hotspur's Micky van de Ven.
United's main priority, however, will be the midfield. With Casemiro set to leave and Manuel Ugarte likely to follow him after a turbulent two years in England, the Reds will likely sign two, potentially even three, new midfielders this summer.
Ferdinand names three potential Casemiro successors
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand has named the three players he believes United should be targeting to replace Casemiro this summer.
“I think Anderson jumps off the page. Premier League experience, played for England in the national player as well, was going to play in the World Cup. Great energy, great legs, dynamic," Ferdinand explained.
“I think whoever we bring in needs to be dynamic. That’s one of their traits that they have. You have to get around the pitch and can be aggressive. You’ve got to replace Casemiro. I’m not saying like-for-like, but I think those couple of traits are needed, and Anderson has that.
“I’m seeing Tchouameni being talked about. I think he’s a different type of player, very physical, capable to go into battle. Huge experience, unbelievable winning mentality. Plays for France, one of the favourites of the World Cup. That says enough. I’d be happy if I were them, too.
“I’m seeing Baleba come back into the shot again. I think he’s got undoubted ability. I still think there’s a lot of learning to do with him, but I wouldn’t say no to him either.”
Tchouaméni should be the priority
If indeed available for around £70 million, Tchouaméni should be at the very top of United's shortlist.
Nottingham Forest will likely demand well in excess of £100 million for Elliot Anderson, while Brighton and Hove Albion will likely also demand a significant fee for Carlos Baleba, despite the fact reports claim United only value him at £50 million after an inconsistent season.
Sandro Tonali is another player that United are said to hold an interest in, but that deal currently looks unlikely, with Newcastle reportedly demanding a fee in the region of £100 million for the Italy international.
When you look at all the potential options on the market and how much they would cost, Tchouaméni at £70 million would be exceptional value for money. It's a deal that would simply be too good to turn down, and the reduced price compared to other targets would potentially allow United the budget to sign a third midfielder.