The Brazilian midfielder has impressed fans in his final season at United, and some are calling for him to stay
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Casemiro's future at Manchester United has become clearer after a contract decision was made that all but seals his departure at the end of the season - but some fans in the Manchester Evening News comments section say that his form speaks for itself as they call for the club to let him stay for one more year.
United have agreed to waive a clause that would trigger an automatic contract extension if the Brazilian midfielder started 35 Premier League games in his final season. This is to allow the 34-year-old to start for the remainder of the season without both parties committing to a fifth season in red.
Casemiro has already announced his departure at the end of the season back in January, and is thought to be lining up a new club for the summer. He has emerged as a key part of this United team for Michael Carrick, but the club are highly unlikely to reverse course and will be planning to spend money on a replacement in the summer transfer window, when they will be hoping to use the lure of Champions League football to lure in a top talent again.
Some fans would resist calls to re-sign Casemiro based on his short-term performances. Reader Redajax says: "He has been very good in some games but his age and fitness are starting to cause problems. He should be released at the end of the season as we need to completely rebuild the midfield and a couple of other positions, particularly left-back. Shaw is slow and injury-prone but when fully fit was a great player."
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MattBusbysAces writes: "Not that many players over the years that become a real fave of mine. That type of player who is just exceptional at what he does. Casi is one. Etched in my mind is against Chelsea, and Garnacho losing the ball and making no effort to win it back. Casi busts a gut to stop the attack and then pulverises the ex-Red. Shades of Keano. Just wish he was 24."
Maledictustrump says: "I think it wouldn’t be wise to give him another year, except on the basis he would be no more than backup. That said, a contract of £350k a week for a squad player is a waste of money. Utd exited both cup competitions early & no European football, plenty of rest between matches has benefited him.
"Next season, if Utd do qualify for Europe would be a different ball game, would Casemero have the legs to deal with the intensity & frequency of the matches? I doubt it. I think alot of fans are getting too carried away with this. Utd need strengthening in a number of positions and it’s going to cost. What we need is the ready made article, players with a proven track record who can handle playing at the highest level.
"The squad as it is now would not be competitive in Europe, arguably they are still some distance from challenging for the PL title. Casemero has probably had his best season for Utd, but we have to stop being so emotionally attached, he’s had his day, many thanks, but Utd have to move forward, it’s that simple."
Others would still consider keeping on the ageing Brazilian. Kamu2355 writes: "It may be a big surprise if Casemiro and Manchester United have a rethink and decide on a 1-year extension with reduced wages of £200,000 weekly!
"It could be a win-win situation for the club and player. There will still be a savings of ~£7.5m, if that happens. With more Brazilian players and other new recruits, he could prove to be a good mentor to guide them along."
On our Facebook page, Okereke Cyprian says: "Casemiro still has a lot to offer Man Utd. The board should rather sell one of the flops that Ten Hag bought and extend Casemiro's contract for another year. He is a huge asset to United."
Fumen David writes: "We love him, renew his contract please." Tolu Lopez adds: "Sell Ugarte instead and keep Casemiro."
Using the comments section below, tell us what an acceptable wage packet would be, if any, for you to consider letting Casemiro stay at United.