United ‘trying to find a buyer’ for high earner despite him being an integral starter under Ten Hag

Manchester United are actively looking to offload Casemiro this summer despite him being a mainstay in Erik ten Hag’s starting 11.

The Brazilian’s integral role in the squad has been the case since he arrived at Old Trafford in 2022; if he’s fit, he starts.

His performances have come under the microscope on numerous occasions this season, though, as fans have frequently pointed out how off-the-pace and sluggish Casemiro looks when up against such prolific attackers.

19-year-old Kobbie Mainoo has often had to cover for his senior counterpart or jump in to correct one of his mistakes despite the pair’s experience being worlds apart.

As well as that, Casemiro ranks as United’s highest earner on an eye-watering £350,000 per week, and you’d struggle to find many – if any – showings that have warranted such an outrageous pay packet this campaign.

It’s believed that one of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s priorities as the club’s new co-owner is trimming the initial wage bill before preventing any repeats by putting an end to the ridiculous contract offers we’ve seen over the past decade.

It seems that Ratcliffe is likely to start with Casemiro, as TeamTalk claims that the Reds are ‘trying to find a buyer’ for the experienced midfielder, who boasts an illustrious career and trophy cabinet at 32 years old.

His most likely suitor is set to be in the Saudi Pro League, given that the sides will harbour no concerns when it comes to matching or even increasing his salary.

Al-Ahli, Al Hilal and Al-Nassr are all interested in the former Real Madrid star, the latter of which would see him reunite with ex-teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.

Casemiro’s current contract runs until 2026.