Cristiano Ronaldo sends 19-word message to Al-Nassr chiefs about Casemiro, with Manchester United star open to move

Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly wants Al-Nassr to sign his former teammate and Manchester United midfielder Casemiro during the January transfer window.

Manchester United are open to making sales this month as they aim to bolster Ruben Amorim’s squad with new signings.

Due to a dire financial state, sales will be needed in order for any additions, which is why the club are open to moving several players on.

Casemiro is among those who have been linked with an exit, with the Brazilian looking out of favour under new boss Amorim.

The 32-year-old had a good start to the season under Erik ten Hag but has started just four times so far since the Portuguese head coach took charge.

Ronaldo’s 19-word message about Casemiro

According to a new report from the Telegraph, the Saudi Pro League are keen on signing Casemiro in the January window and that the player is open to a move.

It was explained that Al-Nassr are the most likely destination for the United midfielder. After the Saudi club sold midfieler Seko Fofana to Rennes, there is a space for a foreign signing.

Cristiano Ronaldo is said to be in support of the move, with the United and Real Madrid legend sending a clear message about his former teammate.

Ronaldo moved to Saudi Arabia in 2023 after his Old Trafford exit and while he has scored 74 goals for his new club since arriving, he is yet to win the league title.

The 39-year-old has claimed that it is ‘hard to compete’ with the other Saudi clubs at the moment, in what appears to be a message for Al-Nassr chiefs to get a deal over the line for Casemiro.

“It’s hard to compete with teams like Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad but we are still there, still pushing and fighting,” Ronaldo said.

Do United need to replace Casemiro directly?

Casemiro’s sale would open up some interesting opportunities for United in the transfer market, with left wingback being the biggest priority.

However, many would argue that the club’s first signing needs to be a midfielder if the Brazilian departs, with limited options in the engine room.

Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte are the clear starters, with Bruno Fernandes also able to drop deeper into the position. Christian Eriksen and Casemiro are somewhat underwhelming–but important–depth.

Amorim could dip into the Academy for the short-term, with players like Toby Collyer and Dan Gore potentially able to provide a squad role in the first-team until the end of the season.

Sekou Kone is also a player the club hoped that might be ready for first-team football after his summer arrival, although his campaign has been interrupted with an injury problem.

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Otherwise, United will also need to get smart in how they replace Casemiro directly, while also using any funds to try and strengthen elsewhere.

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