Casemiro could seal Man Utd exit as January transfer plan 'confirmed'

Casemiro could seal his Manchester United exit in January, it has been claimed.

The Brazilian enjoyed a standout debut season for United, scoring in February’s 2-0 Carabao Cup final victory over Newcastle.

However, this term he has shown signs of his age, with the 31-year-old’s form having drastically faltered.

The Guardian reported in October that incoming minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, questioned United’s recent transfer policy during a visit to the club in March, citing the previous summer’s acquisition of Casemiro as an example of what he views as questionable recruitment.

Casemiro was purchased for €60million (£51million) the previous August from Real Madrid. The midfielder, who was 30 at the time, was handed a four-year contract of about £350,000 a week.

The Guardian has now claimed United are aiming to strengthen four positions in January, including a move for a defensive midfielder, amid Casemiro and Sofyan Amrabat’s indifferent form.

The latter has started four league games on loan from Fiorentina but was left out for 18-year-old academy product Kobbie Mainoo on Sunday against Everton.

United's reported January transfer activity may open up the prospect of a Casemiro departure.

Relevo alleged that Casemiro is considering his options ahead of the January window, having been disillusioned by United’s lack of competitiveness this season.

The Brazil international is said to be attracted by the prospect of playing in Saudi Arabia, particularly given so many of his former teammates play there.

Real Madrid and Brazil colleagues Karim Benzema, Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Fabinho and Roberto Firmino make up a star-studded quintet of players Casemiro knows well, and who would help him settle in Saudi Arabia.

Furthermore, Mainoo’s emergence could help convince United of the merits of chasing in on Casemiro.

Mainoo produced an eye-catching full debut in United’s 3-0 win over Everton, having been strong in the tackle, winning 100 per cent of his challenges and making more ball recoveries than any other player in red.

Moreover, in possession, Mainoo was effective with his passing and particularly comfortable on the half-turn.