Casemiro in action for Manchester United vs Burnley, photographed by Matt McNulty of Getty Images, illustrating the midfielder's evolving role at Old Trafford.
Credit: Matt McNulty/Getty Images via CaughtOffside
Manchester United are determined to retain Casemiro despite strong interest from Saudi Pro League giants Al Ittihad, with the club refusing to sell without finding a suitable replacement first.
Manchester United Determined to Retain Casemiro Despite Al Ittihad Interest
Manchester United have made it clear they do not intend to sell Casemiro despite concrete interest from Saudi Pro League club Al Ittihad, with the club prioritising squad stability over the financial benefits of offloading the Brazilian’s substantial wages. The 32-year-old midfielder, who remains contracted until June 2026, has found renewed importance under new manager Ruben Amorim, who has repositioned him as a deep-lying playmaker central to United’s midfield strategy.
Amorim’s tactical revolution has transformed Casemiro’s role, emphasising his defensive transitions and build-up play responsibilities, which has increased his value to the first team significantly. This repositioning comes at a crucial time, with Al Ittihad expected to pursue the former Real Madrid star again in the January transfer window with the lure of a lucrative contract that would dwarf his current estimated £250,000-plus weekly wages at Old Trafford.
United’s stance reflects their current rebuilding phase, where losing a player of Casemiro’s experience and leadership qualities without adequate replacement would undermine their European ambitions. The Brazilian’s preference to continue playing at the highest level, influenced by the upcoming 2026 World Cup, aligns perfectly with United’s determination to retain his services, making an immediate departure increasingly unlikely despite the financial temptation from Saudi Arabia.
While offloading Casemiro’s wages would provide significant financial relief for United, insiders suggest the club values squad continuity over short-term financial gains. The midfielder featured heavily during the 2024-25 season with 42 appearances, including strong Europa League performances, demonstrating his continued importance to the team’s tactical framework under Amorim’s new system.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has characterised Casemiro’s potential exit as “not decided” or “guaranteed,” highlighting the ongoing uncertainty surrounding his future. With no formal negotiations confirmed between United and Al Ittihad, and the club’s clear preference to retain the Brazilian at least until his contract expires, Casemiro appears set to remain at Old Trafford for the foreseeable future, despite the persistent Saudi interest.
