22
AS Monaco midfielder and reported Manchester United target Youssouf Fofana is very likely to be on the move this summer according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Fofana has been repeatedly mentioned as a player United retain an interest in as a potential replacement for the declining Casemiro.
At 32, Casemiro is on the wrong end of his career and his performances in the just-concluded 2023/24 season proved why the Red Devils should be looking to part ways with him in the coming weeks and months.
He seemed to struggle with the pace and intensity of the Premier League in his sophomore year at Old Trafford.
Casemiro’s erratic passing and propensity to recklessly dive into challenges was a constant source of frustration for supporters all campaign.
Casemiro was a surprise exclusion in Erik ten Hag’s starting XI during the FA Cup final clash vs. Manchester City. There were suggestions that the Brazilian was dropped by the manager amidst concerns over his poor displays.
It was later relayed that the player asked Ten Hag not to be involved as he didn’t feel fit enough to feature in the match.
Amidst all this, Casemiro continues to be strongly linked with a switch to the Saudi Pro League, with his United tenure seemingly nearing its end.
If the South American ends up leaving, Fofana would be a solid replacement for him. The AS Monaco star ranked in the 82nd percentile for successful passes and in the 81st percentile for dribbles completed last term. He won an average of 5.12 ground duels per 90. He also put in 2.04 tackles and registered 1.20 interceptions per 90.
AS Monaco director Thiago Scuro recently admitted that the Ligue 1 giants are open to selling Fofana this summer.
United are not the only party eyeing the 25-year-old. AC Milan also want him and if he has a good Euro 2024 with France, more clubs are likely to enter the fray for his signature.
Romano has now given a slight update on Fofana’s situation. The Italian journalist wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Youssouf Fofana’s exit in the summer window is almost guaranteed as he’s not even negotiating new deal at AS Monaco.”
“There’s interest from England, Italy and not only; one to watch in the upcoming weeks.”
🚨🇫🇷 Youssouf Fofana’s exit in the summer window is almost guaranteed as he’s not even negotiating new deal at AS Monaco.
There’s interest from England, Italy and not only; one to watch in the upcoming weeks. pic.twitter.com/gUL1AgREoD
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 30, 2024
Fofana would be the perfect partner for Kobbie Mainoo and his attributes would compliment the young Englishman well.
Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.