Manchester United have expressed an interest in Botafogo midfielder Danilo Santos | OneFootball

Manchester United have expressed an interest in signing Botafogo midfielder Danilo Santos this summer, according to the BBC.

Man United want a new midfielder despite bringing both Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans to the Old Trafford club.

The Red Devils are now keeping tabs on Danilo, with Newcastle United also keen on bringing the former Nottingham Forest star back to the Premier League.

The 25-year-old Brazil international made four appearances at the World Cup and Man United could do with his services as manager Michael Carrick eyes a specialist defensive midfielder.

Botafogo prefer to sell Danilo abroad after rejecting an offer of around £23 million, including bonuses from Verdao.

The Man United target reportedly has a £17m clause for foreign clubs, which could be a big boost for the Red Devils and other European admirers.

He played 50 Premier League games for the City Ground club before returning to Brazil in July 2025.

Danilo has been impressing back home, with all his eight caps for Brazil thus far coming this year.

His passing, relentlessness and the knack for being absolutely everywhere are some qualities of his which would come in handy at Man United.

The 6ft 2in midfielder is also physical, dynamic and technical, and he has what it takes to replace Casemiro at the Theatre of Dreams.

Botafogo have also received offers of about £25m from Palmeiras and Zenit St Petersburg for Danilo, and more suitors could come calling.

It is unknown whether Man United have plans to make a concrete move for him.

They are exploring multiple options, including not signing another midfielder this summer, and fans will hope they make the right decisions.