Manchester United have confirmed they have reached an agreement to sign Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro in a deal worth up to £70m.
The Athletic reported on Thursday night that Casemiro’s signing was imminent and United confirmed his impending arrival on Friday night.
United will initially pay £60m, rising to £70m if all clauses and conditions are met, and the Brazil international will sign a four-year contract with an option for a fifth.
The transfer is subject to agreement of personal terms, UK visa requirements and medical screening.
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Casemiro is already among the top earners at Real Madrid and while United’s offer is nowhere near the double-your-money package proposed in the Spanish media, the 30-year-old is certain to be among the club’s top earners, with the exception of Cristiano Ronaldo.
His salary is understood to be at a similar level to David de Gea, who is reportedly earning in excess of £350,000.
The athlete understands that Casemiro will receive a modest boost if United qualifies for the Champions League and his deal will be heavily motivated and merit-based. While he will earn slightly more at United than at Real, his earnings will fall significantly if Erik ten Hag’s side continue to miss out on Champions League football.
#MUFC have agreed a deal to sign Casemiro #RCMFas Erik ten Hag tries to strengthen his midfield.@dermotmcorrigan and @MarkCarey93 Analyze Brazilian midfielder Wyscout, who loves interceptions and takes siesta in a hyperbaric chamber.https://t.co/1Yvzrq7mJF
— The Athletic UK (@TheAthleticUK) August 19, 2022
Ensuring Casemiro’s services has been United’s main focus ahead of the September 1 deadline.
United have been drawn in by his character and elite tradition as a defensive midfielder, while the player himself is reportedly keen on the Premier League challenge.
Casemiro has already won three La Liga titles, five UEFA Champions Leagues and three FIFA Club World Cups in his illustrious career.
It is believed his recruitment could help United realize Fred’s full potential. Casemiro is acting in a holding role for Brazil, allowing Fred to take on a more advanced position and there is hope the momentum could be replicated at Old Trafford.
Casemiro’s arrival means United will end their pursuit of Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong.
While United remain admirers of the 25-year-old, an ongoing impasse has meant they have changed their minds and the club are seen as unlikely to be able to sign both players in this window.
Could Casemiro play against Liverpool?
Manchester United meet rivals Liverpool in the Premier League on Monday – but Casemiro will not be able to perform as Erik ten Hag’s side to recover from back-to-back defeats.
Clubs in the top division must complete transfers by midday on the previous working day if they want to field their new signing for the upcoming matchweek.
In the case of Manchester United’s upcoming game against Liverpool, this meant signings had to be registered by 12pm on Friday.
Casemiro has yet to complete his medical studies and also needs a work permit to play in England.
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Casemiro is not eligible to face Liverpool even if Manchester United seal the deal
(Photo: Getty Images)