The 32-year-old was subject to interest from three Saudi Pro League this summer but sources in the kingdom say they were put off by United’s asking price and his high pay salary.
However, i understands that those same teams will return in January buoyed by the possibility of being able to bring the midfielder to the Middle East for a much lower fee than he could have commanded during the summer window.
There is also interest from Galatasaray over a loan move – Turkish clubs can still sign players until 13 September – but Casemiro’s salary on could prove a stumbling block, as United would need a significant portion of his wage covered to agree to any exit.
United are in no desperate need to sell or move Casemiro on, especially when they cannot sign a replacement. Several sources within the club insist the attitude towards him and his talents has not changed following Sunday’s disastrous outing that saw the Brazilian substituted at half time. The feeling in the dressing room is that Casemiro was unnecessarily singled out in a poor team display.
Galatasaray, however, already pulled off one major transfer coup last week – bringing in striker Victor Osimhen from Napoli on loan until the end of the season – and they are keen to bolster their midfield options before their deadline passes.
The arrival of Uruguayan midfielder Manuel Ugarte puts Casemiro’s place in the United team under serious threat and should the new signing cement his spot alongside Kobbie Mainoo in the heart of United’s midfield, sources in the Middle East believe they can persuade the five-time Champions League winner to join the Pro League in the winter window, for a more palatable fee.
New United co-owners Ineos have been ruthless with their cost-cutting so far and the belief is they are unlikely to sanction paying someone £300,000-a-week to sit on the bench.
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