Sources: Two reasons why Al-Ittihad do NOT want Manchester United’s Casemiro this summer

Sources have told UtdDistrict that Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad are not actively pursuing a transfer for Manchester United’s Casemiro this summer for two reasons.

Since his high-profile move to Manchester United from Real Madrid in 2022, Casemiro has struggled to justify his £60 million price tag.

Brought in during Erik ten Hag‘s inaugural transfer window at Old Trafford, Casemiro’s initial adaptation period was slow. However, once he found his rhythm, he became an indispensable part of the midfield, forming a dynamic partnership with Bruno Fernandes.

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Unfortunately, a long-term injury in November last year marked the beginning of a challenging period for the Brazilian star. His performances took a noticeable dip, and he made critical mistakes while being deployed as an auxiliary centre-back in the final matches of the season.

Casemiro’s transfer stance

Manchester United are thought to be open to offloading Casemiro for the right price this summer. However, according to recent reports, the midfielder is in “no rush” to decide on his future, with his contract running until 2026.

It is suggested that only a “huge” offer would persuade Casemiro to leave United. He currently earns a reported £350,000 a week at United, making him one of the highest-paid players in world football.

Given his recent decline in form, many speculate that a transfer to the Saudi Pro League could be the most beneficial outcome for all parties involved this summer. This move could provide Casemiro with a fresh start while allowing Manchester United to recoup a significant portion of their investment.

The truth behind Al-Ittihad reports

Recent reports have claimed that Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad are interested in Casemiro this summer—however, UtdDistrict can confirm that this is not currently the case.

According to sources with intimate knowledge of the situation, Karim Benzema has a significant say in the club’s transfers, and the veteran striker wants to make Al-Ittihad a “Club French”.

UtdDistrict have been informed that Casemiro is a candidate they have considered, but at this moment, both Nabil Fekir and Houssem Aouar have the advantage over the 32-year-old Brazilian.

Regarding Casemiro’s position as a deeper midfielder, it is also stressed that Al-Ittihad already have both former Liverpool star Fabinho and French international N’Golo Kante as lieutenants in the position.

Casemiro is said to have “no place” in the side, meaning he is very low on their list. Al-Ittihad’s side is said to need a midfielder with more offensive qualities than Casemiro, hence the interest in Fekir and Aouar for a summer transfer.

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