​One of Manchester United’s most coveted midfield targets could now be available at a bargain price, according to reports from Brazil. The club’s summer agenda prioritized strengthening the engine room at Old Trafford, with a clear aim to replace the departing Casemiro. Beyond that, United were intent on upgrading on Manuel Ugarte, who did not deliver the impact expected in the heart of the midfield. In sum, negotiations suggested that two, if not three, quality midfielders would need to be recruited.
United had already agreed a deal for Ederson as their initial midfield reinforcement, with his medical scheduled to complete the transfer. Yet securing deals for their other top midfield targets proved more complex. Elliott Anderson, Sandro Tonali, and Mateus Fernandes—names that once loomed as dream options—have since signed with rival clubs. As a result, Ineos now must rely on scouting reports to identify viable alternatives.
One name that has already been circled is Danilo Santos from Botafogo, widely regarded as an outstanding Casemiro replacement. The former Nottingham Forest midfielder’s reinvention at Botafogo after returning home last summer has not gone unnoticed. His resurgence has demonstrated his versatility, painting a picture of a complete midfielder who can contribute in multiple phases of play. In his last 12 league appearances for Botafogo, Danilo has recorded seven goals and two assists, underscoring his attacking threat in addition to his defensive responsibilities.
There had already been talk of United pursuing him before the World Cup, though Botafogo were not keen to strike a deal at that time. The expectation was that they could command more than the £34 million figure that had been floated for him, given a strong World Cup showing. Unfortunately for Botafogo, Danilo did not get the chance to showcase his true potential on the world stage, managing only 43 minutes across Brazil’s tournament run.
That limited game time has, in turn, altered the prospects of a Botafogo exit, according to Brazilian outlet O Dia, as cited by Sport Witness. Botafogo will not receive the jump in value they had hoped for, and the club’s financial situation remains unchanged, meaning a major sale this summer is still a necessity. The report adds that with the World Cup boost failing to materialize, holding firm at the previously discussed €40 million (£34 million) valuation could become difficult.
Given Danilo’s Premier League experience and the growth in his game over recent months, he remains a solid midfield option for the 20-time English champions. If there is a genuine bargain to be had, United would be prudent to pursue it. With the right terms, a deal could be a win for United, offering a cost-effective reinforcement who can contribute immediately and long-term.
In the broader context, United’s midfield plans reflect a strategic shift: secure a core of dependable, versatile operators who can shoulder both defensive duties and progressive play, while also providing attacking ideas from midfield. The Danilo option, if pursued at the right price, could align with that blueprint perfectly, delivering value and depth in a way that aligns with the club’s evolving ambitions. should a favorable deal appear, it would be a situation United should actively explore to restore balance and dynamism to their engine room.