Man Utd handed transfer headache as Casemiro shuts down rumours of summer move | OneFootball

Manchester United have been dealt a massive blow in their plans to get Casemiro’s excessive wages off their books at the end of the season.

The Brazilian, who is on a base salary of £350,000 per week, has made it clear that he wants to see out his contract at Old Trafford despite growing interest from Saudi Arabian clubs.

The 33-year-old joined United from Real Madrid in a deal worth around £70 million back in 2022 but has found playing time hard to come by this season.

Since Ruben Amorim stepped in for Erik ten Hag, Casemiro has often been left to warm the bench, making only a. handful of appearances.

He made the starting line-up for the first time since December as United fell to their 12th Premier League defeat of the season following a 1-0 loss against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

His limited playing time has led to growing speculation about a potential exit from United, but Casemiro insists he is committed to the club.

“I have to keep doing what I’m doing, with a lot of respect and education,” Casemiro told AS.

“Of course I’d like to play more, of course.  I don’t know any player who doesn’t want to play and help. Also, I’d like to help the club at this time.

“I approach things with respect for my teammates and the technical committee. And above all, I respect United, a club to which I’m very grateful.

“I have a year and a half left on my contract, and I’d like to fulfil it here in Manchester.  I’m comfortable here, and so is my family.”

Al Nassr and Al Qadsiah are among the Saudi clubs that have been tracking Casemiro. Al Ittihad also explored a move last summer, but they couldn’t get a deal over the line.

United are keen to reduce their wage bill, and Casemiro is one of several players on the chopping block, but they could struggle to move him on in the summer.