Manchester United could agree to surprise exit despite transfer window being closed

Casemiro could leave Manchester United for Flamengo despite the European transfer window being closed.

Former Chelsea star Filipe Luis, the Brazilian side's head coach, is reportedly interested and could secure his signature on loan as the Brazilian window closes on February 28.

He was also linked to a big pay day at Al Nassr as well as Besiktas and Roma.

However, a move is most likely to be a loan deal to his homeland.

“I can assure you that Flamengo investigated the player’s situation in the last few days,” said journalist Jorge Nicola.

“The English club agreed to loan him and help with part of his salary. Filipe Luís would love to count on Casemiro.

“Flamengo understands that, given all the figures, it is a very risky business. Even though United are willing to help with most of the salary, there would still be a very high amount to be paid.”

The midfielder arrived at Man United from Real Madrid in 2022 for £70million alongside compatriot Antony, who now plays for Real Betis on loan.

Casemiro has 107 appearances for the Red Devils and won a FA Cup and Carabao Cup under former head coach Erik ten Hag.

But since Ruben Amorim took the reins the Brazilian has struggled for first team minutes.

The five-time Champions League winner has featured 24 times this season with only 1,447 minutes across five competitions. 

He has been an unused substitute for five consecutive Premier League matches as Manuel Ugarte is the preferred defensive midfield option.

To rub more salt in the wound Toby Collyer, a 21-year-old was picked ahead of Casemiro for a Europa League tie against Rangers last month. 

“He has to have the characteristics and then I have to choose the player with the characteristics on how I see the game,” Amorim said 

“It is just like that and I have to make some choices, I want to play a game that is sometimes different from other coaches and I have to choose based on that. That's all.”

Marcus Rashford also fell out of favour with the Portuguese coach and made his Aston Villa debut against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday following his loan deal.

And with owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe looking to cut costs further Casemiro’s huge wage of £350,000 per week would be a huge burden lifted off the club’s shoulders.