Manchester United midfielder Casemiro is reportedly 'increasingly likely' to stay at Old Trafford until his lucrative contract expires.
The Brazilian was handed a four-year deal by the Red Devils upon his arrival from Real Madrid in August 2022, while the experienced midfielder cost the 20-time English champions in the region of £70m.
At the time, there had been concerns over the length of the deal handed to a 30-year-old, but Casemiro did perform impressively during his first season at Old Trafford, becoming a vital player for Erik ten Hag's side.
The South American's form has gradually dropped off, though, and despite starting Man United's last two Premier League matches, he is down the pecking order when it comes to Ruben Amorim's first-choice midfield.
Casemiro was linked with a move away from Old Trafford in January, but there was ultimately not a concrete offer for the Brazilian, who is the highest earner at the club on £350,000 a week.
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Casemiro 'set to stay' at Man United until June 2026
According to TEAMtalk, Man United have not received a bid for Casemiro, and it is now seen as highly likely that he will see out the final year of his contract before leaving on a free transfer in June 2026.
The report claims that teams from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Brazil have been in touch with the Red Devils, but there has not been a concrete offer, largely due to the midfielder's substantial wage packet.
Man United are also believed to want in the region of £25m for the ex-Real Madrid star, making a move for a 33-year-old in the latter stages of his career incredibly expensive.
Casemiro is allegedly unwilling to 'give up a penny' of his salary, and with clubs not willing to meet his wage demands, Man United are facing having to keep an unwanted player and continue to pay him £350,000 a week until the middle of next year.
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How will the situation play out?
Christian Eriksen is set to leave Man United on a free transfer this summer, which should, in theory, make it easier for Casemiro to secure minutes next season, but a new central midfielder is expected to arrive at Old Trafford.
Casemiro has made 26 appearances this season, but his lack of mobility has been an ongoing issue, and it is clear that he is not in Amorim's plans when the Portuguese has a full complement of players available.
Man United are in a difficult situation, though, as there is not a lot that they can do if Casemiro is prepared to see out the final year of his contract, with the club being made to pay for their questionable decision to sign him in 2022.
The Red Devils would certainly have to reduce their £25m asking price and potentially offer to cover a large proportion of his wages in a potential loan deal next season, but Casemiro is believed to be settled in Manchester with his family, so all the signs are currently pointing towards an exit on a free transfer in the middle of 2026.
Matt Law
