After a turbulent few years in his career, Botafogo midfielder Danilo Santos has emerged as a serious transfer target for Manchester United this summer.
The 25-year-old Brazilian originally joined Nottingham Forest from Palmeiras in January 2023 but struggled to establish himself in the Premier League during his time in England.
He subsequently returned to Brazil and signed for Botafogo, where his performances have steadily improved before exploding into top form this season.
Across 21 appearances in all competitions, Danilo has scored nine goals and registered two assists, making him one of the most in-form midfielders in South American football.
His outstanding club form earned him a place in Brazil’s World Cup squad, though he remained on the periphery of the squad and failed to start any game during the tournament.
Palmeiras and Zenit St Petersburg have already tabled a £25m proposal to bring the player back to his homeland or move him to Russia, creating an early bidding war.
However, both Manchester United and Newcastle United have entered the race after being impressed by his eye-catching performances throughout the campaign.
Botafogo hold the upper hand in negotiations, with Danilo’s contract running until 2029, and Transfermarkt valuing the midfielder at around £27m.
United have already bolstered their midfield options this summer by signing Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, following the departure of Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte’s serious knee injury.
Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount also provide options in central midfield, though Mount has suffered numerous fitness problems since joining from Chelsea.
With Champions League football secured for next season, United face a gruelling fixture schedule that demands genuine squad depth across all positions.
Despite the obvious need for cover, BBC Sport claim that Manchester United might opt not to sign a third midfielder this summer, casting doubt on any potential move for Danilo.
The Brazilian is naturally a left-footed box-to-box midfielder but is also capable of operating in a more defensive midfield role, adding tactical flexibility for any interested club.
Whether United ultimately make a concrete approach for Danilo Santos before the transfer window closes remains one of the more intriguing storylines of the summer.