Andrey Santos claims he can replace Casemiro at Manchester United | OneFootball

Andrey Santos claims he can replace Casemiro at Manchester United after joining the club from Chelsea in a deal worth up to £50 million. 

The club’s director of football Jason Wilcox described the Brazilian as a ‘box-to-box midfielder’, but he has played in a deeper role in the last four pre-season friendlies. 

Man Utd also signed Youri Tielemans but still want a third midfielder following Casemiro’s departure and a long-term injury to Manuel Ugarte. 

Santos is confident he can step into Casemiro’s boots and be the club’s new number six. 

Talking to the media after United’s 1-1 draw with Paris Saint-Germain, he said (BBC Sport): “I prefer playing deep like a number six.

“I try to help my teammates without the ball and with the ball I love breaking the lines. 

“Casemiro is a legend. Now he’s gone, and I’m here. I feel that I can do like Casemiro did last season.”

United targeted Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes earlier this summer. But they withdrew from discussions because of the excessive financial demands from their respective clubs. 

The Red Devils have apparently learned from their past mistakes as they have remained disciplined in the transfer window. 

United paid an initial £48m fee plus £2m in add-ons to sign Santos from Chelsea. The Brazil international has impressed with his performances during pre-season. 

Santos was a squad player at Chelsea, but is set for a bigger role with United.

Stats from Sofascore.