United fans back Elliot Anderson to replace Casemiro as Ederson signing draws lukewarm response

Manchester United fans have made their preference clear on who should replace Casemiro this summer, with Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson the overwhelming choice in a reader poll — even as the club closes in on a separate £38.3 million deal for Atalanta’s Ederson.

Anderson topped the poll with 4,467 votes, representing 56% of nearly 8,000 responses. The 22-year-old is understood to be high on United’s wishlist, though Manchester City are also pursuing him and are believed to be in pole position to secure his signature.

Aurélien Tchouaméni of Real Madrid came second with 1,639 votes (21%), while Ederson — the player United have actually agreed a deal to sign — received just 461 votes, or 6%. The result signals that supporters do not view the Brazilian as a like-for-like replacement for Casemiro, and are hoping for a more prominent midfield acquisition before the window closes.

Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba each attracted 5% of the vote, with Roma’s Manu Koné registering just 1%. Six per cent of respondents felt none of the listed options were the right fit.

Casemiro’s time at Old Trafford came to an end last month. The five-time Champions League winner was given a send-off at the final home game of the season against Nottingham Forest, before departing the club ahead of the trip to Brighton on the final day. He leaves having helped United secure Champions League qualification for next season.

Ederson’s arrival from Atalanta, in a deal worth up to £38.3 million, is expected to be United’s first signing of the summer. While the poll suggests fans see him as a depth addition rather than a Casemiro heir, the club’s recruitment team faces a tougher task if they are to land Anderson ahead of their city rivals.