Manchester United are reportedly considering striking a pay-off agreement with Casemiro to move the experienced midfielder on at the end of the 2023-24 campaign.
The 31-year-old made a big-money move from Real Madrid to Old Trafford in the summer of 2022, with the Red Devils switching their attention to him after failing to sign Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona.
Casemiro scored seven times in 51 appearances for Man United during a successful first season at the club, but he has struggled with fitness problems this term, being restricted to just 12 outings in all competitions.
The Brazil captain was back on the bench against Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League last weekend, having recovered from a hamstring issue which has kept him out since the start of November.
However, there is currently speculation surrounding his future at Old Trafford, with clubs from the Saudi Pro League thought to be keen to offer him a lucrative switch to the country.
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Casemiro penned a four-year deal upon his arrival from Real Madrid, with the option of a further 12 months, and he is the highest earner at the club, allegedly on £350,000 a week.
According to the Daily Star, Man United's incoming minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe is keen to move Casemiro on this summer, and an agreement over a pay-off could be reached.
The report claims that Casemiro may be offered £20m to leave at the end of the season, with Man United believing that they will struggle to sell him due to his huge wage packet.
Ratcliffe is said to be of the opinion that potential transfer targets would ask for financial parity with Casemiro, so agreeing a pay-off this summer would be in the best interests of the club.
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Casemiro has scored four times and registered one assist in 12 appearances for the 20-time English champions during the 2023-24 campaign.
The South American has not played in the Premier League since the start of October, though, and his performances from a defensive point of view were criticised early in the campaign.
Juventus and AC Milan are said to be keeping a close eye on his situation, but a big-money move to Saudi Arabia or a return to Brazil are believed to be more likely at this stage.
Man United will overhaul their squad again this summer, but the club have allegedly not yet given up hope of signing a new forward before the end of the January transfer window.
Anthony Martial could reportedly miss the rest of the season if he undergoes a hip operation, and head coach Erik ten Hag is said to be determined to bring in Brian Brobbey from Ajax.
Matt Law
