Manchester United pushing to sign French midfielder on free transfer to replace Casemiro

Manchester United are pursuing Adrien Rabiot—a player they see as an ideal replacement for Casemiro REUTERS/Matthew Childs
Manchester United have reportedly joined the race to sign Adrien Rabiot.
The talented midfielder, currently competing with the French national team at Euro 2024, was a staple in the middle of the park for Juventus last season. He featured 35 times for the Old Lady, impressing throughout the campaign.
The 29-year-old’s current contract with Juventus is set to expire this summer. Moreover, sources suggest he is expected to reject a new three-year proposal from the Italian outfit, in the hopes of pocketing a bigger and potentially his final bumper contract in Europe.
Given his decorated trophy cabinet and soon-to-be free agent status, the ex-PSG star has attracted widespread interest from several clubs, including Manchester United.
Manchester United join four-horse Rabiot race
According to TEAMTalk, Manchester United are understood to be pushing the hardest to sign Adrien Rabiot. The 20-time English champions have been long-term admirers of the player, having previously engaged in difficult discussions with the player’s mother and agent, Veronique.
This time around, the Red Devils face competition from three other suitors. New Juventus boss Thiago Motta remains eager to tie the player down to a new deal.
Premier League outfits Arsenal and Aston Villa also wish to recruit the experienced midfielder, as they look to strengthen their squads for next season’s Champions League.
Meanwhile, the Old Trafford outfit remains firm in its pursuit, having held preliminary talks Rabiot over a summer move.
To add to United’s commitment, the fact that they are one of the few clubs capable of handing the Frenchman a hefty paycheck also works in their favour.
The Mancunian giants see Rabiot as an ideal replacement for Casemiro, who may well seek fresh pastures this summer. But Manchester United are being wise enough by keeping their options open, with reports suggesting they have also looked into PSG’s Manuel Ugarte to bolster their midfield.