Casemiro announced his plan to leave Manchester United this summerplaceholder image
Casemiro announced his plan to leave Manchester United this summer | AFP via Getty Images
Man Utd plan a midfield refresh in the 2026 summer transfer window.
The 34-year-old announced in January he would leave the club this summer when his contract comes to an end. United do have the option to trigger an additional year in his current deal, though the Brazil international wanted to bring clarity to his situation and avoid incorrect speculation over his future in the final months of the season.
United sources stated the decision not to extend Casemiro's stay was made 'far in advance' of his public statement on 22 January, and they will not be swayed by his recent rejuvenation at the heart of midfield. While it will be difficult to replace both the quality and experience of Casemiro, United believe the exit of their highest earner will enable additional capacity to invest in their planned midfield refresh this summer.
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Casemiro set for Manchester United exit
Casemiro was serenaded by the Manchester United faithful after another excellent performance during their weekend win over Aston Villa. The former Real Madrid star opened the scoring with a terrific header as chants of 'one more year' reverberated around Old Trafford.
Casemiro has rolled back the years with several midfield masterclasses this season, though it can't be ignored that his revival has come amid a significantly reduced fixture calendar. While he could quite clearly play a squad role next season, it would not be a surprise if performance levels dipped again when asked to regularly play two matches a week.
United will instead use the money saved from Casemiro's impending exit to reinvest in central midfield, with two signings targeted in that position. Elliot Anderson is viewed as the dream addition, while there is also interest in Carlos Baleba, Sandro Tonali and Adam Wharton. United are also keeping tabs on possible cheaper options such as Joao Gomes, Alex Scott, Angelo Stiller and Lucien Agoume.
It is widely believed Casemiro will move to Major League Soccer this summer, while there could also be renewed interest from Saudi Arabia and Spain. Speaking to Match of the Day after the Aston Villa win, United legend Wayne Rooney claimed he would love to see Casemiro offered a short-term extension to his Old Trafford stay.
“I would now”, Rooney said. “I said early on in his time at United I didn’t think he quite had the legs to get round. I think a few people felt the same, but I take that back. I think he’s been absolutely fantastic.”
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