Manchester United considered “favorites” to sign Guido Rodríguez on a free transfer | OneFootball

Casemiro’s importance can be gauged from the fact that manager Erik ten Hag turned to him to play as a centre-back amid an injury crisis at the club.

United are without Lisandro Martinez, Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof, and Jonny Evans, forcing the manager to ask the Brazilian to play closer to his side’s goal.

The Brazilian has done relatively well alongside Harry Maguire, apart from the mistake against Burnley, but considering his performances in the middle of the park, not many United fans are in favor of keeping the former Real Madrid man for another season.

United would do well to upgrade on the 32-year-old, whose technical quality and ability to cover ground has left a lot to be desired this season.

But at the same time, United need to strengthen a number of positions. They are unlikely to have a high enough budget to address all areas of the pitch and would have to be creative this summer.

In that regard, the availability of Guido Rodríguez on a free transfer presents the Red Devils with a great opportunity to replace Casemiro without spending anything.

According to Fichajes, United are among a number of top European clubs, including Atletico Madrid and Barcelona, keeping an eye on the Argentine defensive midfielder.

In fact, they add that the Premier League giants are “positioned as the main favorite” to secure Rodríguez’s signature.

The 30-year-old midfielder, who has shielded Real Betis’ backline in more than 150 games, is all set to depart the Seville-based outfit this summer upon the expiration of his contract.

Rodríguez is leaving Betis with the club facing financial difficulties. Interestingly, they are not the only Spanish club who find themselves in a precarious financial situation.

Barcelona could also lose some big names this summer to balance their books – a move that may open doors for United to get their hands on Frenkie De Jong.

Recently, the Peoples Person relayed a report claiming that De Jong’s future at Camp Nou is uncertain due to his lucrative contract, which is set to see his wages rise even further next season.

Accordingly, De Jong could be made available for sale in the event he fails to sign a new contract on lower terms. All possibilities remain open at this stage, including a reunion with Ten Hag at United.

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