Why Al Nassr are so desperate to sign Casemiro and it isn't to do with Cristiano Ronaldo

Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr are ready to make a big-money move for Casemiro in January, according to reports – and there is currently a 'big drive' to try and sign the Manchester United midfielder.

For some time, Casemiro has been tipped to join the Saudi Pro League. In fact, a number of clubs in Saudi Arabia have been linked, including Al Ittihad, Al Hilal, Al Ahli, Al Ettifaq and Al Qadsiyah.

However, it looks like Al Nassr are the most likely team to make a move for the 32-year-old, who has made more than 100 appearances for United since joining from Real Madrid in 2022.

Saudi dealmakers believe Casemiro is available for around €30 million [£24.8m], according to journalist Ben Jacobs, who has suggested that the player is 'open' to the idea of a move to Saudi.

Last summer, when he was being linked with a move to Al Ittihad, the Brazilian midfielder was reportedly against leaving Old Trafford for pastures new but it appears things have changed in recent months.

It is also said that Al Nassr are in a financial position to move for Casemiro and as a result, he would become one of the top-five paid footballers in Saudi if he agrees to put pen to paper.

On top of that, Al Nassr are especially keen to get a deal over the line ahead of the TV rights cycle renewal later this year.

The Saudi club, managed by former Lazio and Inter Milan boss Stefano Pioli, have an array of talent at their disposal. Cristiano Ronaldo is their biggest star, of course, alongside Sadio Mane, Aymeric Laporte and Marcelo Brozovic.

Last month, Ronaldo claimed the Saudi Pro League is superior to Ligue 1.

Speaking at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, he said: "Saudi League is better than Ligue 1, of course. France only has PSG. The rest are finished. Try to sprint in 38, 39 40-degree weather and see."

Casemiro played alongside Ronaldo at Man Utd. Image credit: Getty

Ronaldo added: "It is difficult to become a champion in Saudi. This year Al Hilal are better, Al Ittihad are top of the league, but I believe that we have to push hard to be champions.

"I've been champion everywhere I have (played) and I believe I will be champion, but I've won this trophy for scoring so many goals and assists and maintaining my level."

Thoughts on Casemiro's potential move to Al Nassr? Let us know in the comments.