Danilo, who previously featured for Nottingham Forest, is now with Botafogo in Brazil after a transfer worth around £20 million during the summer of 2025. His move represented Botafogo’s second-highest transfer in club history, narrowly behind the acquisition of Thiago Almada. The midfielder has been involved in Brazil’s setup and was part of the squad for the 2026 World Cup, appearing as a substitute in four of the team’s five group-stage matches. He accumulated 43 minutes of playing time in the tournament before Brazil’s exit in the Round of 16.
Botafogo’s stance on the market has been patient, with the club hoping that a strong World Cup showing would significantly boost Danilo’s value. When the tournament did not extend their expectations, his market valuation did not dramatically rise, complicating their plans to command a much higher fee. This development has kept the door open for a potential sale, but it also means the asking price has become a touch more nuanced, with reported valuations hovering around €40 million.
Interest in Danilo remains active on several fronts within Brazil. Clubs like Palmeiras have signaled a readiness to engage in renewed talks with Botafogo, who currently rate the midfielder as a valuable addition to any top-flight midfield. Flamengo has also shown interest, though public estimates from those initial discussions suggest their budget would require a price closer to, or potentially below, the €40 million mark. The evolving dynamics in Brazil’s market could influence whether a bid from Manchester United or another European club emerges as the most practical route for Danilo’s next move.
From Manchester United’s perspective, Danilo is viewed as a sensible fallback option should their primary targets become unavailable or negotiations stall. While there has been sustained attention on his situation, reports indicate the club has not yet formalized a bid. If other targets prove elusive, United could explore a structured approach to a deal for Danilo, balancing price with the midfielder’s long-term potential and fit within Erik ten Hag’s tactical plans.
Danilo’s prior Premier League experience with Nottingham Forest—where he made 62 appearances across two seasons—adds a layer of familiarity for any club considering him. His time in England provided him with exposure to the pace and physicality of top-tier football, which can be an advantage when adapting to the Premier League or similar competitions. His skill set includes midfield versatility, with a capability to contribute both ball progression and defensive work, traits that can align with United’s midfields that seek balance betweenIndustry-ready control and dynamic pressing.
As the transfer window evolves, the market in Brazil remains active, with clubs evaluating their options and potential buyers monitoring the shifts in valuation. For Manchester United, any decision to pursue Danilo would involve weighing current needs, the available budget, and the likelihood of a successful integration into the squad. The club’s strategic approach to midfield recruitment will likely consider not only immediate impact but long-term value and squad depth across multiple competitions.
In summary, Danilo stands as one of several Brazilian midfield options that Manchester United are keeping under review. While not the leading candidate at this stage, his profile—coupled with experience in England and a strong technical base—keeps him in contention should circumstances align for a move. As always with transfers, timing and negotiation dynamics will be decisive in determining whether this potential signing comes to fruition.
