Man Utd eyeing Atalanta's star as a potential replacement for Casemiro

Ederson in action for Atalanta

Manchester United are growing increasingly uneasy about Casemiro’s form - and it comes at a moment when an unexpected midfield alternative may be falling into their lap.

The Red Devils have been alerted to the availability of Atalanta midfielder Ederson, after the player’s agent openly revealed he could leave Italy for less than €40 million.

That price point is significantly lower than the figure quoted to United last January, when the Brazilian’s valuation was close to double.

The prospect of a cut-price deal has suddenly changed the landscape and United are soon expected to move to understand the full financials surrounding a potential move.

The timing is notable as Casemiro’s performances have tailed off in recent weeks, and he was outshone by Crystal Palace’s midfield star Adam Wharton in United’s 2-1 win.

Wharton himself remains firmly on United’s long-term radar, but the club accept he is unlikely to be prised away before the summer at the earliest.

The same applies to other Premier League targets, including Elliot Anderson and Carlos Baleba - making Ederson’s potential mid-season availability even more intriguing.

As previously reported on Flashscore, United are in no rush to finalise Casemiro’s contract situation.

His current deal expires at the end of the season and as the squad’s highest earner, renewing on similar terms is considered a non-starter.

United have not ruled out keeping him beyond this campaign, but any offer would be on reduced wages.

There is a genuine possibility the player leaves United as he is expected to start receiving new proposals in January.

Dean Jones