Manchester United have made an enquiry for Botafogo and Brazil midfielder Danilo as they seek a replacement for the departing Casemiro, according to reports. The 25-year-old, who spent two and a half seasons in the Premier League with Nottingham Forest, is viewed by the Old Trafford hierarchy as a potential option for the defensive midfield role.
According to Botafogo-focused outlet FogaoNet, via Sport Witness, United have asked about the player's situation in Brazil. The Brazilian club signed Danilo from Forest for a fee of €25 million (£21.5m) last summer and are said to be seeking a profit, valuing the player at around €40 million (£35m). Botafogo's preference is reportedly to sell to a European club, with Fulham, Napoli, Bayer Leverkusen, and Zenit St Petersburg also credited with interest alongside United.
The move aligns with the INEOS-led recruitment strategy of targeting players with proven Premier League experience, a policy that yielded success in the previous transfer window. Danilo made 62 appearances for Forest between 2023 and 2025, establishing himself as a reliable performer before his move to his homeland. His form since returning to Brazil has been impressive, contributing 10 goals and seven assists in 37 matches for Botafogo, which earned him a recall to the Brazilian national team.
United's midfield is set for a significant overhaul this summer, with Casemiro's contract expiring and Manuel Ugarte also expected to be sold. The club is aiming to sign two midfield reinforcements, with Lille's Carlos Baleba understood to be the primary target. Danilo is therefore considered an option for the second midfield acquisition, providing a familiar and physical presence in the engine room.
The report emerges amid a backdrop of continued speculation over the club's managerial position, with interim boss Michael Carrick still considered the frontrunner for the permanent role. United's transfer plans are being formulated ahead of what is expected to be a busy summer window as the club looks to build on a season of improvement. Securing a player of Danilo's profile would address a key area of need, offering both top-flight experience and a potential resale value given his age.
