Casemiro to Saudi? United Should Take the Money and Run
It's a rumor that won't die: Al-Ittihad wants Casemiro. Sources close to the Saudi club tell ESPN they're eyeing the Manchester United midfielder. This isn't some far-fetched pipe dream for them either. Al-Ittihad is waiting to see what happens with Fabinho, who's been linked with a move away from the Jeddah-based side. If Fabinho goes, the door opens wide for Casemiro.
A Price Tag United Can't Ignore
Real talk: United should be all over this. Casemiro arrived at Old Trafford in August 2022 for a reported fee of £70 million, signing a four-year deal with an option for a fifth. He was a revelation in his first season, scoring four goals and providing three assists in 28 Premier League appearances. He anchored that midfield, providing the bite and experience United desperately needed. Remember that Carabao Cup final against Newcastle in February 2023? He scored the opening goal in a 2-0 win, lifting United's first trophy in six years. That version of Casemiro was worth every penny.
But last season was different. He only played 25 league games, often looking slow and off the pace. The numbers don't lie. His tackle success rate dropped from 57% in 2022-23 to 49% last season. His passing accuracy, while still decent at 82%, felt less impactful. He looked gassed in some games, especially towards the end of the season. Think about the 4-0 drubbing at Crystal Palace in May; Casemiro was exposed repeatedly playing at center-back due to injuries. He’s on massive wages, reportedly around £300,000 a week. Getting that off the books would be huge for United, especially with their struggles to stay within Financial Fair Play rules. They need to sell to buy this summer, and Casemiro represents a significant asset they can cash in on.
The Fabinho Factor
Here's the thing: the whole deal hinges on Fabinho. He left Liverpool for Al-Ittihad in July 2023 for a reported £40 million. He's been a key player for them, but Saudi clubs aren't afraid to make big moves. If Al-Ittihad can offload Fabinho and free up a significant chunk of their wage bill and transfer budget, they’ll go hard for Casemiro. They’ve shown they’re willing to spend big on established European stars, just look at Karim Benzema, who joined them last summer from Real Madrid. They want proven winners, and Casemiro certainly fits that bill with his five Champions League titles.
United, meanwhile, needs to rebuild. They’ve got young talent like Kobbie Mainoo, who emerged as a real force last season, even scoring in the FA Cup final win over Manchester City in May. Mainoo's energy and ability to drive forward are exactly what Ten Hag's midfield needs. Scott McTominay, despite his critics, bagged seven Premier League goals last term. The club needs to invest in a younger, more dynamic defensive midfielder who can cover ground and press effectively for 90 minutes.
A Necessary Evolution
Selling Casemiro isn’t a slight on his legacy; it’s a pragmatic business decision. He gave United a fantastic first year and helped them win a trophy. But at 32, with his performances clearly declining, his best days in the Premier League are likely behind him. United finished eighth last season, their lowest Premier League finish ever, with a negative goal difference of minus-1. They conceded 58 goals, their most in a single Premier League campaign. They need to get younger, faster, and more athletic in midfield.
Look, United can’t afford sentimentality. They need to clear the decks and bring in players who fit Erik ten Hag's long-term vision – assuming he even has one at this point. If Al-Ittihad comes calling with a decent transfer fee – even £20-30 million would be a win – and takes on his wages, United should bite their hand off. It’s an opportunity to reset and invest in the future.
**Bold Prediction:** Casemiro will be playing in the Saudi Pro League by the end of August, and United will use the funds to sign a new defensive midfielder from Portugal.