Manchester United are reportedly exploring midfield reinforcements ahead of the January transfer window.
Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson is emerging as a top target to replace veteran midfielder Casemiro in the long run.
The 33-year-old Brazilian remains a key figure at Old Trafford, but manager Ruben Amorim is keen to secure a younger holding midfielder who can take over the role in the coming years.
However, Forest are expected to demand over £100 million for Anderson, which could price United out of a deal this winter, reports Manchester World.
That valuation has pushed United to look at alternative options, with Lille’s teenage sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi now firmly on their radar.
The 18-year-old has impressed in Ligue 1, making 10 appearances this season and showcasing maturity beyond his years in a defensive midfield role.
Bouaddi the Cheaper, Long-Term Solution
According to The Daily Briefing, United are among 12 European clubs — including Arsenal, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and PSG — monitoring Bouaddi’s progress.
Valued between £30m and £35m, the French prodigy represents a far more affordable option than Anderson and could arrive in January to learn under Casemiro before taking over next season.
Casemiro’s future remains uncertain, with reports suggesting he could depart in the summer when his current deal expires.
The Brazilian earns around £350,000 per week, the highest at the club, and United would reportedly only extend his contract if he agreed to a pay cut.
Links to the Saudi Pro League — specifically Al Nassr, where Casemiro could reunite with Cristiano Ronaldo — continue to circulate, making the search for a successor even more urgent.
While Casemiro’s leadership and recent performances remain vital, Amorim’s vision is clearly focused on the future, and Bouaddi could be the next big talent to anchor United’s midfield for years to come.
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