Sir Jim Ratcliffe would consider selling Casemiro to Saudi Arabia in order to fund his overhaul of the Manchester United squad. Casemiro has been linked with the Saudi Pro League in recent weeks and could depart to the Middle East when Ratcliffe completes his 25 per cent purchase of the Red Devils.
Ratcliffe is close to completing a £1.4billion deal to buy a quarter of the Premier League club. The British billionaire will oversee the sporting department, with the Glazers taking control of the commercial arm.
The INEOS chief will reportedly oversee sweeping changes at Old Trafford with several stars understood to be in the firing line. United have struggled under Erik ten Hag and a major overhaul could soon take place.
One player linked with a departure is defensive midfielder Casemiro. The Brazilian was outstanding in his first season in the Premier League last term but has struggled for form in 2023-24.
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According to TalkSPORT, Ratcliffe will subsequently consider selling the former Real Madrid man to Saudi Arabia if a suitable offer is made. At 31, January could present the final time United can command a big fee for the player.
United paid £60m to sign Casemiro from Madrid in August 2022. He was initially a revelation at Old Trafford and helped Ten Hag overturn a dismal start to last season.
However, a worrying spiral in form has seen Casemiro struggle in United’s midfield this term. Ten Hag brought in Sofyan Amrabat to compete with the veteran, but neither have seemed entirely up to scratch.
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A big fee for Casemiro would allow Ratcliffe to put money towards a range of expensive new signings. United require major changes on the pitch to help them challenge the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool for the Premier League title.
This year’s £150m spending spree does not appear to have paid off. £65m arrival Mason Mount has struggled, while the £72m signing Rasmus Hojlund has taken a while to settle into life in the Premier League and could need the support of a more experienced striker.
But having spent so heavily over the last few years, United will need to offload several underperforming stars to meet Financial Fair Play restrictions. Casemiro’s departure could be the likeliest given his age profile and substantial salary.
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