Manchester United will reportedly look to sign 27-year-old Argentine international Exequiel Palacios from Bayer Leverkusen to replace Casemiro this summer.
A report by Spanish outlet Fichajes has revealed that Exequiel Palacios is the subject of interest from Manchester United. The Red Devils are keen on bolstering their first-team squad by signing a versatile midfielder in the upcoming transfer window as they prepare for Casemiro’s departure as a free agent.
However, Manchester United will not be alone in the battle for the South American midfielder’s signature, as the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder is also a target for Manchester City. Meanwhile, the Bundesliga giants will demand around €50 million to part ways with Palacios in the coming months.
How has Exequiel Palacios fared at Bayer Leverkusen?
Exequiel Palacios has established himself as one of the most dependable midfielders in the Bundesliga since joining Bayer Leverkusen from River Plate in January 2020. Born in Famaillá, the 27-year-old spent his formative years in Argentina and graduated from the youth division at River Plate. However, he has risen in prominence during his spell with Die Werkself.
The Argentine international has made nearly 200 appearances for Bayer Leverkusen thus far while chipping in with 15 goals and 17 assists. Meanwhile, Palacios’s progress stimulated the interest of several high-profile clubs. Manchester United and Manchester City are among the prospective suitors vying for his signature this year.
Premier League move on the horizon?
Manchester United’s interest in Exequiel Palacios is understandable. The Red Devils are scouring the market for a versatile midfielder as they prepare for life after Casemiro. Additionally, Manuel Ugarte has been dreadful since arriving from Paris Saint-Germain nearly two years ago. Several candidates, including Alan Varela, have thus emerged on Manchester United’s wishlist, with Palacios also a viable target.
As for Manchester City, the Citizens hold a long-standing interest in the Bayer Leverkusen star. They are in a difficult position regarding Rodri’s long-term future amid his links with Real Madrid. So, City must look for a powerhouse of a midfielder, making Palacios an option worth considering.
Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen’s asking price of €50 million makes Palacios an appealing target for Manchester United and Manchester City. With the 27-year-old Argentine international at the peak of his powers, he has the skill-set and age profile to live up to the billing in the coming seasons.
