Manchester United and Al-Nassr in a transfer tug of war for £70m midfield star

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Sep 19, 2025 10:41 PM ET

Al-Nassr are keen to land Casemiro from Manchester United on a free transfer next summer

When Manchester United signed Casemiro from Real Madrid in August 2022, for a reported £70 million fee, he was one of the best defensive midfielders in the world and was massively successful for the Los Blancos. The Red Devils signed him on a four-year contract, which will finally expire next summer in 2026.

The Brazilian quickly became an important player in the midfield and was impactful in his very first season in 2022-23. The 33-year-old played 51 games across all competitions, scored seven goals and provided six assists in his debut season. Casemiro played an integral part in helping United win the EFL Cup.

However, with the arrival of Ruben Amorim, he saw a reduction in game time in the initial phase, but now he is a constant fixture in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system. However, the Brazilian’s effectiveness has reduced over time, and he no longer has the pace to be effective for longer intervals. This is the reason why the Red Devils have been looking for a new defensive midfielder.

Al-Nassr want to sign Casemiro

Now, Mundo Deportivo have reported that Saudi Arabian giants Al-Nassr want to sign Casemiro when his contract at Old Trafford expires next summer. United can extend the contract by a year, but the Brazilian will now want to move away for a lucrative contract and play with his former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo. Casemiro should be aware that he will see a greater reduction in game time if United bring in a quality defensive midfielder like Adam Wharton or Carlos Baleba, whom they have been targeting. Al-Ittihad also wanted to sign him this summer, and hence, there is no shortage of interest for the veteran.

United will not come in the way of a potential move to Saudi Arabia

Casemiro has been sensational with his tackling and interceptions. The Brazilian also contributed to the attack and build-up with his long-range passing skills. Moreover, the 33-year-old has been a leader on the pitch and has also brought a winning mentality to the club. Casemiro has been a player who demands the best from the team and has given his all for the Red Devils.

There is a growing sense that this could be his final season in a top European league. United will certainly not come in the way of a departure if Casemiro wants to leave. Both parties have to mutually agree on a decision to extend the contract by a year. The Brazilian is already past his prime, and United will look to bring in younger profiles for that position as the first job next summer. However, he continues to play an important part under Amorim this season

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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