​Botafogo had planned to sell Danilo at a premium following the World Cup, but the midfielder’s subdued tournament may have altered those expectations. They hoped he would maintain his upward trajectory, dazzling on the global stage and proving just how complete a midfielder he can be. Yet with only 44 minutes of Brazil’s World Cup campaign, he could not demonstrate that level of impact.
When he arrived in England with Nottingham Forest, Danilo was initially labeled a defensive midfielder. Over the past year, though, he has shown himself to be a versatile asset at the heart of the park—a midfielder who is not only defensively solid but also capable of influencing attacking play just as effectively. A return to form after a serious injury at Forest gave him the chance to reinvent his game. In his last twelve appearances, seven goals and two assists, along with his tireless work rate and precise distribution, have convinced many that a move back to Europe would suit him perfectly.
Recently, United were made aware that Danilo might no longer command a premium price. His limited game time at the World Cup has made it harder to justify the £34 million asking price, with whispers that his eventual value could be far lower. Yet before INEOS could approach Botafogo to negotiate a deal for the 25-year-old, Newcastle reportedly moved to outpace them in the race for his signature. Globo reported that “Newcastle have inquired about signing Danilo from Botafogo, viewing the midfielder as their primary option to replace Bruno Guimarães should the Brazilian depart from the English club.” They added that “Newcastle’s interest is among the most persistent lines of inquiry Danilo’s representatives have received.”
If Danilo is the kind of midfielder INEOS believe fits Michael Carrick’s project, they must act quickly. Newcastle may be left with little choice but to part with Bruno Guimarães if Arsenal’s overtures have made a dent in his commitment; his distraction and desire to leave could turn Newcastle into fierce competitors for the Danilo deal. Therefore, before they can pivot to the former United ace, Manchester United should already be laying the groundwork to secure him. Danilo’s ability to disrupt opponents’ attacks, distribute the ball with efficiency, and repeatedly shoulder responsibility for scoring important goals makes him resemble a Casemiro in the making.
The story continues to unfold, with the transfer market watching closely as the drama around Danilo’s next destination intensifies. His blend of defensive discipline, playmaking, and goal threat positions him as a compelling option for clubs seeking a dynamic, all-around midfielder who can drive a team’s performance to another level. The question remains: who will secure his services, and how will his career trajectory unfold in the coming months?