When Manchester United was forced to play games without Casemiro, an important midfield general who has been suspended three times so far, they suffered the most.

Erik ten Hag, the team’s manager, is only natural to draw one naturally defensive-minded midfielder ahead of the upcoming season after learning an important lesson about the lack of alternatives currently present in his squad.

Many midfielders have been linked to United, but not all of them possess the skills necessary to play the No. 6 position and control the game.

The ideal Casemiro substitute is Palhinha
Fulham’s Joao Palhinha is one player who is perfectly suited to succeeding in that one pivot position. He has played a key role in the Cottagers’ outstanding Premier League performances.

In 31 games across all competitions, Palhinha has made an appearance and scored four goals while expertly defending the defense and showing off excellent passing skills.

United has been mentioned as a potential suitor for the Portugal international after his performances caught the attention of the league’s elite clubs.

The London club is aware that keeping hold of the former Sporting Lisbon star will become very challenging with United sniffing around.

Because of this, Marco Silva has given his team the order to bring in Mateus Uribe, a capable replacement from Porto.

Fulham is prepared for the departure of Joao Palhinha, and the club is considering a move for Mateus Uribe of Porto as a potential Palhinha replacement.

United are keeping an eye on the situation of the Portugal international, according to The Sun, with Fulham reportedly expecting to pay at least £60 million for his services.

Fulham is aware that it will be challenging to hold on to the 27-year-old despite his £20 million summer 2017 arrival.

The article also mentioned Fulham’s expectation that United will approach Palhinha in the upcoming weeks.