Manchester United midfielder Casemiro is reportedly preparing to leave Old Trafford in the upcoming January transfer window.
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The 32-year-old Brazilian, who joined United from Real Madrid in 2022 for £60 million, has made over 100 appearances for the club, helping secure the FA Cup and Carabao Cup during his tenure.
However, speculation surrounding his future has intensified as Casemiro has struggled to maintain his form and justify his hefty price tag. Recently, he has lost his starting spot in Erik ten Hag’s lineup.
Despite featuring in United’s home defeat to Newcastle, the five-time Champions League winner had little impact on the game and was substituted after 64 minutes for Alejandro Garnacho.
Casemiro’s contract with United runs until 2026, with an option for a further year. Yet, there is growing consensus within the club that the move has not lived up to expectations. Reports suggest a transfer to the Saudi Pro League is increasingly likely this January.
According to Brazilian outlet UOL, Casemiro is eager to expedite his departure and has already agreed to leave the club. Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund is reportedly determined to secure the veteran midfielder’s signature once the transfer window opens.
While details about his next club remain unclear, the Saudi Pro League must finalize squad regulations concerning overseas players before determining Casemiro’s destination. Among the potential suitors, Al Nassr appears a strong contender, partly due to the player’s close relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo, his former teammate at Real Madrid and United.
Casemiro’s time at Old Trafford has been marked by criticism, with pundit Gary Neville recently labeling him one of Manchester United’s worst-ever signings. Speaking to Sky Sports, Neville criticized United’s recruitment strategy over the past decade and singled out the signings of Casemiro and Antony as panic buys.
“The recruitment has been appalling for ten years, and Ten Hag has suffered from it. The signings of Casemiro and Antony were desperate decisions after early-season losses. Hopefully, they’ll prove us wrong, but those moves highlighted poor management at the top,” Neville said.
As the January window approaches, United’s underwhelming investment in Casemiro underscores their need for a more effective transfer strategy. Meanwhile, the Brazilian’s imminent move to Saudi Arabia signals the end of a short-lived and turbulent chapter at Old Trafford.
