Casemiro's Future: Three Possible Moves After Manchester United Departure
Casemiro is set to leave Manchester United on a free transfer this summer, but his next career move remains uncertain. The Brazilian midfielder, now 34, has been in impressive form since the club announced his departure, yet there are no plans to extend his contract. His deal expires at the end of the season, allowing him to leave without a transfer fee, with several teams showing interest.
Contract Agreement and United's Decision
A significant development has occurred regarding Casemiro's immediate future. Manchester United have reached an agreement that permits him to play in all remaining fixtures without triggering an automatic contract extension. Had he started 35 matches without this clause, his deal would have extended by another year. With 28 starts in 31 league games so far, this avoids a complicated decision during the club's Champions League pursuit.
In January, Casemiro expressed his affection for the club, stating, "I will carry Manchester United with me throughout my entire life. From the first day that I walked out at this beautiful stadium, I felt the passion of Old Trafford and the love that I now share with our supporters for this special club." He added, "It is not time to say goodbye; there are many more memories to create during the next four months. We still have a lot to fight for together; my complete focus will, as always, remain on giving my everything to help our club to succeed."
Potential Destinations for Casemiro
Having played in Europe since joining Real Madrid from Sao Paulo in 2013, Casemiro's next move could take him to a different continent. Here are three potential destinations:
- Inter Miami: The MLS Cup champions from 2025 have lost key players like Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets to retirement. While they have signed Sergio Reguilon as a replacement for Alba, they need a central midfielder to fill Busquets' role. ESPN identifies Inter Miami as one of three clubs pursuing Casemiro. However, the Designated Player rule limits clubs to three players outside the salary cap, and Miami already has Lionel Messi, Rodrigo de Paul, and German Berterame. Casemiro would likely need to accept a substantial wage reduction to join.
- LA Galaxy: Another MLS option, LA Galaxy, might find it easier to sign Casemiro, but they face challenges. Their three DP spots are filled, with Riqui Puig sidelined for the entire 2026 season due to knee surgery. The club has a Brazilian presence with Gabriel Pec and Joao Klauss, but they started sluggishly last season and have only five points from five games in 2026. Adding an experienced player like Casemiro, alongside Marco Reus, could help them mount a turnaround.
- Al-Ittihad: A move to Saudi Arabia has been previously considered, with Al-Ittihad now emerging as frontrunners. The Jeddah side, linked with Mohamed Salah, could lose Fabinho when his contract expires this summer. Even if Fabinho stays, the departures of N'Golo Kante and Karim Benzema mid-season leave room for a new marquee signing. Currently sixth in the Saudi Pro League, Al-Ittihad might miss AFC Champions League Elite qualification but have progressed in this year's continental tournament. A multi-year contract could help them compete with top league teams next term.
As Casemiro prepares for his exit from Manchester United, these options highlight the diverse opportunities available to him in the next phase of his career.
