Manchester United now have the perfect opportunity to strike and sign Casemiro successor

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With Southampton’s relegation confirmed, Manchester United should push ahead with plans to sign Romeo Lavia.

Casemiro helped steer Manchester United towards another clean sheet at the weekend, the team’s 16th in the Premier League this season.

The Brazil international has been an important addition to the Red Devils this season, but when he has not been available, there has been a striking drop-off in quality.

Southampton’s relegation was confirmed at the weekend and this has the potential to help Manchester United.

Romeo Lavia could be Casemiro successor

One player who has stood out as a potential successor to Casemiro this season has been Southampton prospect Romeo Lavia. The Mail reported Manchester United’s interest in the midfielder in March.

The Saints signed Lavia from Manchester City last summer for just £14 million. Despite their relegation, the 19-year-old has stood out as a talented prospect.

He impressed in both games against Manchester United this season, the 1-0 win at St Mary’s and the 0-0 draw at Old Trafford.

Paul Scholes told BT Sport back in August: “I was surprised when City let him go I think he is good enough potentially.”

“He has got a pass in his locker and he is big and strong and likes to defend. He does not want to get forward too much and sits in-front of the back four and sets the play in motion from there.”

While City have a buy-back clause, this can only be activated in 2024. Manchester United must push this summer to try and get a deal done.

Lavia’s price will be reduced as a result of Southampton’s relegation, and he will also be keen to play in the Premier League again next season.

In terms of finding a long term successor to Casemiro, Lavia’s profile is ideal. The teenager is young enough that he won’t expect to be a regular starter every single week, but he will play frequently through the season.

Take Tyrell Malacia as comparison. He has been the back-up to Luke Shaw at left-back, and has still played 33 games throughout his first season at the club, with rotation necessary.

United need to start using Casemiro a little more sparingly, considering that he has just turned 31. This can only happen if there is a suitable alternative.

Lavia is a strong contender, and Southampton’s relegation will have the sharks snapping round their talented players. Manchester United must make sure they are ready to bite.