Carrick faces midfield headache as Maguire's United future comes into question

Michael Carrick faces a demanding first transfer window as permanent Manchester United manager, with the club’s midfield identified as the most urgent area for reinforcement following Casemiro’s departure ahead of the final game of the season.

The Brazilian, who spent four years at Old Trafford, brought his stint to a close as United prepare to return to Champions League football next season. Former United goalkeeper Edwin van de Sar acknowledged that replacing Casemiro will be far from straightforward, describing the task as a “headache” for Carrick.

“Some players will want to leave or extend their contracts,” van de Sar said. “The big thing is Casemiro leaving, which will leave them a big gap in midfield. I think the last year and a half, the appreciation for him and his career has been immense, so that will be a headache.”

Van de Sar also offered a broader assessment of United’s summer business, suggesting the club’s recent attacking additions have given them greater stability. “With the addition of Mbeumo, Cunha, and Sesko, they have a little more grit, a little bit more stability, a little bit older players,” he said. “I think they will do that again this summer — they will look at the Premier League to see which players are available to fill the gaps to make sure that the level of Man United goes up every year.”

United are understood to be close to completing the signing of Atalanta midfielder Ederson in a deal worth £38 million, which would represent their first arrival of the summer. Further additions are expected, while Marcus Rashford is among those whose future at the club remains uncertain.

Separately, questions have resurfaced around Harry Maguire despite the defender signing a new one-year contract — with an option for a further 12 months — less than two months ago. The 33-year-old’s deal was rewarded on the back of consistent performances under Carrick, with Maguire featuring in 15 of the manager’s 17 matches in charge as United secured a third-place finish in the Premier League.