Former Real Madrid player Casemiro poised to make switch to Saudi Pro League | OneFootball

According to Relevo, former Real Madrid player Casemiro has his mind set on retirement in Saudi Arabia. Last summer, Manchester United received a proposal from a club in Saudi Arabia for around €70m and this summer they may look to recoup the transfer fee they paid Real Madrid for the Brazilian.

The 31-year-old arrived at Old Trafford last season after leaving the Spanish capital. In his first season at the club, he made an instant impact and played a crucial role in United’s Carabao Cup triumph and their return to the Champions League.

However, this season he has been unable to live up to expectations. An injury in the early part of the season kept him out for three months and since his return his performances don’t resemble that of his first year at the Red Devils.

The defensive midfielder was taken off against Luton Town at half time after narrowly escaping a second yellow which would have seen him dismissed for the fourth time in his United career. Since returning to the side, United have gone unbeaten and have climbed up the Premier League table.

But in the five appearances since his recovery, he has been out shadowed by the promising Kobbie Mainoo, who has started each game alongside him. The teenager is viewed as the long-term replacement for Casemiro, who now has questions marks over his future in Manchester.

The former Madrid player turns 32 on Friday and his future under Erik ten Hag is far from guaranteed. Last season, the Brazil international put pen to paper on a four year deal with an option to extend for a further year, however just 18 months into this deal and there is already speculation that he may move to Saudi Arabia.

There is strong interest from Saudi Arabia who would like to acquire the player this summer. The arrival of INEOS at the Manchester-based club has raised doubts as to whether Casemiro will be part of the project in the long-term or if they should accept a huge financial offer from Saudi Arabia in the summer.

Rajan Sangha | GSFN