Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has reportedly decided whether he wants to leave the Red Devils amid interest from Turkish giants Galatasaray.
The 32-year-old shone in his first season at Old Trafford as part of a midfield duo with Christian Eriksen, helping the Red Devils win the EFL Cup and finish third in the Premier League.
Casemiro added an FA Cup winners' medal to his astounding collection last season, but there was a noticeable decline in his performances, leading to the expectation that he would be moved on this summer.
Saudi Arabia appeared to be the most viable destination for the former Real Madrid man, whom Man United have seemingly begun planning for life without with the signing of Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain.
However, the Saudi Pro League window closed with Casemiro still on the books at the Theatre of Dreams, and the Brazil international has started all three of Man United's Premier League matches so far this season alongside Kobbie Mainoo.
Casemiro 'wants to fight' for Man United place
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Casemiro only lasted until half time in last weekend's 3-0 home defeat to Liverpool, though, having been at fault for both of Luis Diaz's goals and receiving scathing criticism for his display.
While Premier League clubs can no longer sign players, several transfer windows across Europe remain open, most notably in Turkey, where clubs can bring in new faces until September 13.
Galatasaray have supposedly been in talks with Man United over a loan deal for Casemiro following his Liverpool nightmare, but according to the Daily Mail, he is solely focused on his Old Trafford career and wishes to fight for his place.
As a result, the 32-year-old will turn down any offers from Galatasaray or other interested parties, even if they agree a deal with Man United, who remain open to letting him leave on their terms.
However, Casemiro's weekly £375,000 wages could scupper a move elsewhere, and Saudi clubs did not pursue a deal even after ex-director John Murtough travelled to the Middle East in December.
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Casemiro has 12 goals and nine assists under his belt from 87 appearances for Man United, who apparently expect him back in training following the international break after he was not called up to the Brazil national team.
Could any other players leave Man United this month?
While Casemiro - whose contract at Old Trafford runs until 2026 with the option of a further 12 months - appears to be safe for now, the same cannot be said for at least one other under-performing Brazilian.
Attacker Antony - whose £85m move from Ajax in 2022 has been a huge disappointment - is believed to be close to joining Galatasaray's fierce Turkish rivals Fenerbahce, albeit on loan rather than permanently.
The futures of Eriksen and Victor Lindelof are also clouded in uncertainty, although the former's agent recently provided an update on his client's situation.
Man United's first Premier League game back after the international break sees them head to Southampton on September 14.
Ben Knapton
