Casemiro preferred destination revealed after Manchester United exit

Manchester United’s squad evolution has gathered pace over the past year.

One of the most experienced players set to depart this summer is expected to do so without stepping away from elite European football.

Those close to Casemiro say the midfielder is keen to continue his career on the continent once his contract with Manchester United expires in June, as reported by The Sun.

United confirmed last month that the 34-year-old would be leaving at the end of the season, drawing to a close a spell that began with his £70 million move from Real Madrid in August 2022.

Although Casemiro has been loosely linked with a move to Major League Soccer, recent trips to Florida and Miami are understood to have been personal rather than exploratory.

The Brazilian retains a family home in Madrid, and the prospect of remaining in Europe is said to be more appealing than a transition to a slower-paced league.

Italy has emerged as a potential destination, with Serie A viewed as a competition where experience and tactical discipline are still highly valued.

The move of former Real Madrid teammate Luka Modric to AC Milan last summer has been cited privately as an example of how veteran midfielders can still perform at the highest level.

Casemiro’s belief that he remains competitive is supported by his involvement this season.

He has started 24 of United’s 29 matches, missing only through suspension or rotation, and has scored five goals, four of them from set pieces.

Since returning to the starting line-up at the beginning of United’s Europa League knockout phase in February, he has been a regular presence in midfield.

Internationally, the next World Cup could represent his final opportunity with Brazil after being recalled last year by former Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti.

United explored potential exits to the Saudi Pro League in 2024 and again during the winter transfer window, but Casemiro’s £350,000-a-week salary proved a major barrier.

As his United career draws to a close, the midfielder appears intent on ensuring it does so without signalling the end of his time at Europe’s top table.