Recruitment chiefs believe the Nottingham Forest “monster” is the essential partner needed to replace Casemiro and protect Kobbie Mainoo.
The Midfield Overhaul: Beyond the Anderson Hype
While the headlines have focused on United’s pursuit of Elliot Anderson—the 23-year-old “metronome” valued at £100m insiders reveal that the deal for his teammate, Ibrahim Sangaré, could be just as vital.
Recruitment specialists at Old Trafford have noted that Anderson’s freedom to progress the ball and move into attacking zones this season is directly linked to Sangaré’s “exceptional ground coverage and duel-winning ability.”
The “New Makelele”: Replacing the Casemiro Void
With Casemiro officially departing at the end of the season, United are desperate for a defensive anchor with Premier League pedigree. Sangaré, who was compared to Claude Makelele and Marcel Desailly by Dutch coach Mario Been, fits the “destroyer” profile perfectly.
Why Sangaré is on the Radar:
- Physicality: At 6ft 3in, he provides the aerial dominance United have lacked in a post-Casemiro era.
- Tactical Security: His ability to sit deep allows creative players like Mainoo and Fernandes (should he stay) to operate without defensive fear.
- Value: Signed for £30m from PSV, he represents a more cost-effective “robust” option compared to other targets like Amadou Onana.
A Ready-Made Partnership for Carrick
Michael Carrick’s philosophy relies on technical security and quick transitions. By signing both Anderson and Sangaré, United wouldn’t just be buying two players; they would be importing a proven Premier League chemistry.
This “double raid” strategy aims to bypass the usual integration period, giving United a midfield engine room that is already synchronized for the 2026/27 campaign.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
