The rumor mill never truly stops in football, especially when Saudi Arabian clubs get involved. Now, it's Casemiro's turn to be linked with a move to Al-Ittihad, the same club that pried Fabinho from Liverpool last summer. Sources tell ESPN that the interest is real, and the Brazilian midfielder could be heading for the exit door at Old Trafford.
Look, Casemiro arrived at Manchester United in August 2022 for a hefty £60 million fee, a move that raised eyebrows given his age at the time – 30. He immediately injected a much-needed steel into United's midfield, helping them to a Carabao Cup triumph and a third-place Premier League finish in his debut season. His goal in the Carabao Cup final against Newcastle was a classic powerful header, a moment that epitomized his impact. He finished that season with 7 goals and 6 assists in all competitions, a remarkable return for a holding midfielder.
Here's the thing: Al-Ittihad already has Fabinho. The former Liverpool linchpin signed a three-year deal worth a reported £40 million, joining Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kante in Jeddah. Fabinho's role is strikingly similar to Casemiro's – a defensive anchor, a destroyer of opposition attacks. In the Saudi Pro League, Fabinho has been a consistent presence, making 29 appearances and contributing to Al-Ittihad's push for the top. He averages over two tackles and one interception per game, numbers that highlight his defensive prowess.
So, why would Al-Ittihad want another player of the same mold, especially one on a considerable wage? The reporting suggests Casemiro's transfer depends on Fabinho's future. This isn't just about squad depth; it's about roster spots and financial fair play within the Saudi league, even with their deep pockets. If Fabinho stays, a Casemiro move makes less sense from a tactical perspective, unless they plan a significant formation tweak. If Fabinho were to move on, perhaps to another European club or even within the Saudi League, then the path for Casemiro becomes clearer. That's a big "if," considering Fabinho just arrived.
For Manchester United, a Casemiro departure wouldn't be without its complexities. His second season at Old Trafford hasn't hit the same heights as his first. Injuries have plagued him, limiting him to just 18 Premier League appearances this past season. His performance levels, particularly his defensive intensity, have also dipped. He was often caught out of position, and his pace, never his strongest attribute, seemed to diminish further. The 4-0 thrashing by Crystal Palace in May, where Casemiro looked particularly off the pace, was a stark reminder of his struggles.
United needs to rebuild. They're looking for younger, more athletic options in midfield. Getting Casemiro off the wage bill, reportedly around £350,000 per week, would free up significant funds. They've already invested heavily in Mason Mount and Sofyan Amrabat, though neither has fully clicked. Letting Casemiro go, even for a nominal fee, would allow them to pursue a new, younger defensive midfielder who fits Erik ten Hag's long-term vision. This is a cold, hard business decision masquerading as a transfer rumor.
My hot take? This move is a win-win for everyone involved. Casemiro gets a lucrative contract and a fresh start in a less demanding league, while United offloads a high earner whose best days are clearly behind him. I predict Casemiro will be playing in the Saudi Pro League by September 1st, regardless of Fabinho's immediate future. Al-Ittihad wants him, and United won't stand in his way.