Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly trying to convince Casemiro to join Saudi Arabia next season. The veteran midfielder will leave Manchester United when his contract expires at the end of this season. He was one of the club’s best performers under manager Michael Carrick, but there are no plans to extend his stay at the club.
United have reportedly waived a clause in Casemiro’s contract that would have given him a further year if he started 35 league games in 2025/26. He’s expected to reach that number in the final seven games. As a result, whatever happens in the coming weeks, he will be leaving Old Trafford.
Earlier this month, it was reported that Casemiro was in talks about his next club, but it was not revealed who he was negotiating with.
Ronaldo has been linked with a move to Inter Miami, where he would be paired with Lionel Messi, but he is reportedly taking steps to prevent that from happening.
According to Marca, the former United striker wants Casemiro to join Al Nasr. They played together at Real Madrid and won multiple Champions League titles before rekindling their partnership at Old Trafford.
Ronaldo is said to believe that his former teammate will give Al Nasr a decisive leap forward and increase their chances of winning silver next season.
Such a move would see Casemiro increase his bank balance with a much higher salary than he currently earns at United.
However, the report adds that Messi is equally keen to play alongside the 34-year-old next season and could try to persuade him to join Inter Miami.
It remains to be seen how the situation will develop, but the one thing that is certain is that Casemiro won’t be a United player for long.
“But I truly believe that the decision has been taken and it’s over. I’m enjoying it now. I think the (last) game for Manchester United will be a difficult (emotional) moment.”
Casemiro also praised Carrick for the great job he has done since becoming United manager, adding: “Above all, Michael is a specialist in my position on the field. He’s been a really great player.”
“It makes everything a lot easier and he’s always talking to us. I feel like we’re in a good place at the moment in Manchester and my goal now is to get the club back into the Champions League.”
