Former Norway striker Jan Aage Fjortoft has informed Man Utd that they have already signed “another Eric Cantona” in the form of Casemiro.

The Red Devils signed Casemiro in August after the player had enjoyed a seven-year spell with Real Madrid.

Cantona had a huge impact at Old Trafford after joining United from Leeds in November 1992. During his five seasons in the north west, the Frenchman won the Premier League title four times and bagged 81 goals and 62 assists in 182 appearances.

His imperious personality won him plenty of proponents and detractors throughout his time in England. But he always rose to the occasion in the big matches. And Fjortoft thinks Casemiro is similar to the former striker.

United shelled out a staggering £70million to prise Casemiro away from the Bernabeu Stadium. The midfielder has gone on to rack up 20 appearances for the Red Devils and has been widely extolled for his ability to sniff out danger and protect the backline. And it’s no surprise United have enjoyed an upturn in fortunes since he put pen to paper on a deal at Old Trafford.

Man Utd have been told that they’ve already signed ‘another Eric Cantona’ (Image: GETTY)

“The opportunity to start a new challenge at Man Utd and in the Premier League is extremely exciting,” Casemiro said in the summer. “I have worked with many great managers in my career and, having met with Erik [ten Hag] and heard his ideas, I can’t wait to work closely with him, his staff and my new team-mates in the coming years.

“I’m ending one beautiful journey in Madrid whilst starting another in Manchester as determined as ever to win football matches, win trophies and make our fans proud by bringing success to this great club.

Man Utd signed Casemiro from Real Madrid in August (Image: GETTY)

“Everybody knows the history of Man Utd, the significance of the club around the world and what it means to its supporters. To represent United is an honour and I am ready to give everything to help the team achieve our ambitions.”

Casemiro won five Champions League trophies, three Club World Cups and three La Liga titles during his time at Real. And following the capture of the 30-year-old, United football director John Murtough added: “Casemiro is a serial winner and one of the best midfielders in world football; his exceptional record speaks for itself.

“He complements the skillsets of the squad and will be a great addition to the dressing room with his experience, knowledge and character. I know that Casemiro remains as determined as ever to be successful on the pitch and we look forward to seeing that happen in a Man Utd shirt.”

source: https://www.express.co.uk/