Al Ittihad considers Manchester United’s Casemiro; transfer contingent on Fabinho – sources
Al Ittihad is considering the acquisition of Manchester United midfielder Casemiro on a free transfer for the upcoming season, but the Saudi Arabian club must first determine the future of Fabinho, sources informed ESPN.
Casemiro declared last January that he intends to depart from United once his contract with the Premier League side concludes on June 30.
At that time, sources indicated to ESPN that, at 34 years old, the Brazil international believes he still possesses the capability to pursue his career in one of Europe’s elite leagues.
Nevertheless, sources have conveyed to ESPN that Al Ittihad is attentively observing the situation and is eager to entice him to relocate to Saudi Arabia.
Al Ittihad currently occupies the sixth position in the Saudi Pro League, which is presently topped by Al Nassr, featuring Cristiano Ronaldo.
The club also boasts other players with European experience, including former Liverpool midfielder Fabinho, but they are exploring the market for a high-profile signing following Karim Benzema’s departure to Al Hilal in February.
In this context, sources have informed ESPN that the potential acquisition of Casemiro is connected to Fabinho’s own future.
The ex-Liverpool midfielder, who joined Al Ittihad in 2023, is set to see his contract expire this summer, and it remains uncertain whether he will extend his contract or depart on a free transfer.
Casemiro’s resurgence under Michael Carrick has led some to suggest that United should retain the Brazilian midfielder beyond the current season.
United supporters chanted “one more year” at the Brazilian after he netted a goal in the 3-1 victory over Aston Villa on March 15.
Sources have indicated to ESPN that a reversal of the decision is improbable, but teammate Leny Yoro has disclosed that the players desire the club to retain the 34-year-old.
“Everyone wanted him to stay, he’s a player [who is] really important for us,” Yoro stated.
“Even in the dressing room, every day, he brings experience that no one else has in the team.
“He has won everything, which has greatly assisted us in matches and even off the pitch.”
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United still retains the option to activate a one-year extension in Casemiro’s contract, although it was mutually agreed with the club in January that he would leave in the summer.
Despite being a crucial element of the resurgence under Michael Carrick, the United head coach has suggested that the decision will not be altered.
Information from ESPN’s Bruno Andrade and Rob Dawson contributed to this story
