Sir Jim Ratcliffe considers huge Man Utd transfer call that would cost millions
Manchester United are weighing up the idea of paying off Casemiro the rest of his contract in a bid to move him on as soon as possible.
The five-time Champions League winning midfielder arrived at Old Trafford 18 months ago from Spanish giants Real Madrid in a deal worth £60million on a four-year contract. Less than two years into that agreement, United are now believed to be mulling over the idea of cutting ties with Casemiro and starting their midfield rebuild afresh.
The former Los Blancos regular enjoyed a standout debut campaign and was viewed as a signing of the season candidate by some, but has seen his form decline dramatically in term two. This season has been plagued with persistent injury issues and Casemiro has found it hard to build momentum.
INEOS chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe confirmed his intention to purchase 25 per cent of the club on Christmas Eve and with that, Britain's richest man and his team are expected to have final say on all footballing operations. The Premier League are yet to ratify the purchase, but Ratcliffe is already getting to work.
United are expected to announce the arrival of former Manchester City boardroom heavyweight Omar Berrada, who will become the Red Devils' CEO. Both a new sporting director and head of recruitment are also expected to follow, but for now the focus is on the players.
Marcel Sabitzer completes Man Utd transfer after last-minute deadline day dash
Casemiro is reportedly the one in the firing line, despite not being out of contract with United until the summer of 2026. Were Ratcliffe to swing his axe and buy the Brazilian out of his deal, it would cost the club at least £20m.
With that being said, it would free up significant space on United's wage bill. Casemiro is hardly short of potential suitors, with a number of Saudi Pro League sides keen on his services, but not so keen on parting ways with money for the 31-year-old.
HAVE YOUR SAY! Should United offload Casemiro? Comment below
Casemiro hasn't played for Manchester United since November 1 (Getty Images)Some feel that manager Erik ten Hag has had a frosty relationship with the midfielder ever since his comments regarding Casemiro back in October. Asked why he hauled the Brazil international off at half-time against the Bees, his response is rumoured to have not gone down well in the dressing room.
"I wanted more football," Ten Hag explained, when asked why he took Casemiro off so early in the clash. "One who brings passing, distribution, link-up play. So I thought to bring [on] Christian Eriksen for Case."
The rather blunt remarks have led many to believe that Ten Hag deems Casemiro surplus to requirements, or at the very least not a viable option long-term.
Read more similar news:
Comments:
comments powered by Disqus
