United’s £35m move for red-hot midfield monster under threat as Arsenal open talks over PL return – report

Manchester United are expected to revamp their midfield this summer. Casemiro is leaving, and INEOS plan to make a double midfield signing in response to his exit. Midfield plan A top midfielder is set to be signed to replace the Brazilian, with another quality addition expected to follow in order to bolster United’s midfield depth. There is also a suggestion that, should Manuel Ugarte leave, a third midfield signing could be sanctioned. Danilo links A number of midfielders have been linked with a move to Old Trafford, and one of those is former Nottingham Forest man Danilo, who now plays for Botafogo. Nine months on from leaving the Tricky Trees and returning home, the midfielder has proven to be a major hit in the Brazilian league. While he has always been known for his defensive qualities, breaking up play and advancing possession with purpose, he has also made a serious impression going forward. In 21 games, he has contributed nine goals and three assists. United may see shades of Casemiro in him: a defensive midfielder who carries a real threat in front of goal. With all eyes on whether the Red Devils turn their interest into a concrete bid, an interesting update has now emerged from Brazil. Arsenal contact Danilo’s entourage Globo Esporte report that United’s Premier League rivals, among other European sides, are already in contact with the midfielder’s agent over a return to Europe: “Monaco, Benfica, Arsenal, and Galatasaray have also contacted the player’s representatives, who see the move as natural for an athlete in good form.” The report also claims it is unlikely the midfielder will remain in Brazil beyond this summer, with the player himself feeling ready to return to Europe and prove himself at the highest level. Transfer fee set Botafogo expect the 25-year-old to shine at the World Cup and are hoping, according to the Brazilian outlet, to secure a €40 million (£35m) exit fee. That said, if INEOS believe Danilo is the right fit, they will need to act decisively. Should they make concrete moves, they may yet convince the Samba star to join them at Old Trafford and succeed his compatriot Casemiro. The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Daniel Onguko Dan is a writer with The Peoples Person, an avid Manchester United fan whose passion for the Red Devils evolved into writing about them. He was introduced to United back in 2008, and his love for the club has continued to grow ever since. Like every other United fan, he believes the club will soon return to its rightful place and strives to reflect that belief in his writing. While he has also written about other Premier League sides, including Arsenal for Just Arsenal and The Arsenal Analysis Blogspot, Dan lives and breathes Manchester United.