Al Ittihad has shown interest in acquiring Manchester United midfielder Casemiro on a free transfer for the upcoming season. However, the Saudi club must first clarify Fabinho‘s status, according to sources linked to ESPN.
Casemiro, who revealed in January that he plans to leave United when his contract ends on June 30, is still determined to play in one of Europe’s elite leagues, despite being 34 years old, sources say.
Al Ittihad is monitoring the situation closely, eager to convince Casemiro to make a move to Saudi Arabia.
Currently, Al Ittihad is sitting sixth in the Saudi Pro League, which is led by Al Nassr, featuring Cristiano Ronaldo.
Al Ittihad has other notable players with European experience, including former Liverpool midfielder Fabinho. The club is on the lookout for a high-profile signing following Karim Benzema‘s departure to Al Hilal in February.
The potential move for Casemiro is closely tied to Fabinho’s future at the club, as the former Liverpool player’s contract is set to expire this summer. It remains uncertain whether he will extend his stay or leave for free.
Casemiro’s resurgence under Michael Carrick has sparked debate among United fans on whether the club should prioritize keeping the Brazilian midfielder beyond this season. Following his goal in the 3-1 victory over Aston Villa on March 15, supporters chanted, “one more year” in support of him.
While sources indicate that a reversal of Casemiro’s decision is unlikely, teammate Leny Yoro has shared that the players expressed a desire for the 34-year-old to stay. “Everyone wanted him to remain with us; he’s an incredibly vital player,” Yoro commented. “His experience is unmatched in our team, and it has greatly aided us both on and off the pitch.”
– Manchester United anticipates the completion of a new stadium within six years
– Man United’s Mbeumo and Sesko have withdrawn from international duty
– Ronaldo’s eldest son has trained with Real Madrid ‘s academy – sources
Manchester United retains the option to extend Casemiro’s contract for one more year, though a mutual agreement was reached in January for his departure this summer. Despite demonstrating his importance in the resurgence under Carrick, the head coach has indicated that the decision regarding his exit will likely remain unchanged.
Information from ESPN’s Bruno Andrade and Rob Dawson contributed to this report.