MLS duo lead way to sign nine-goal Manchester United star

Inter Miami and LA Galaxy are the two leading contenders to sign Casemiro, talkSPORT understands.

The 34-year-old Brazilian is leaning towards a move to Major League Soccer despite firm interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

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The Manchester United midfielder has confirmed he is leaving Old Trafford at the end of the season despite fan calls for him to stay for another year.

34-year-old Casemiro is one of United’s highest earners and a mutual parting of ways was agreed in the early part of this year despite some discussions over a new reduced-terms deal.

Inter Miami and LA Galaxy are both currently in talks to try and sign the Brazilian.

And although LA Galaxy hold Casemiro’s discovery rights, seemingly giving them an advantage, sources have told talkSPORT Casemiro is attracted by a potential Inter Miami move.

MLS’ discovery rights are in theory supposed to prevent multiple clubs vying for the same player, but as long as any club can show the financial means to pull a transfer off, there is a path forward. Inter Miami are not precluded from approaching Casemiro and have held discussions dating back months.

Neither Inter Miami or LA Galaxy has a free designated player spot but there are workarounds to stay within MLS’ salary cap rules leading both to believe a transfer can be pulled off this summer.

A move to LA Galaxy would see Casemiro link up with former Dortmund midfielder Marco Reus. The Los Angeles-based club have the financial means to meet Casemiro’s demands.

Yet sources have told talkSPORT discussions with Inter Miami have also been ongoing and positive since March. And joining David Beckham‘s franchise would see Casemiro play with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.

Saudi dealmakers haven’t yet entirely given up, but have failed to convince Casemiro to join since summer 2023.

Al-Ittihad are regarded as the most viable destination, but the Jeddah-based club don’t yet know their budget for 2026/27, and are more inclined to sign a number eight as it stands.

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Fenerbahce also enquired on Casemiro but are yet to advance any talks.

The Turkish giants had made finding a number six a priority this summer but the arrival of N’Golo Kante in January from Al-Ittihad has changed their priorities.

The lack of European suitors, coupled with Casemiro’s reticence to switch to Saudi, have given MLS clubs growing optimism.

Man United exit

The Brazilian announced in January that he would be leaving the club at the end of the season.

United have opted not to renew his deal as part of their long-term plans to overhaul their squad this summer.

Casemiro has played 158 times for United following his £60m move from Real Madrid, scoring nine Premier League goals this season.

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He said to United’s website: “I will carry Manchester United with me throughout my entire life.

“From the first day that I walked out at this beautiful stadium, I felt the passion of Old Trafford and the love that I now share with our supporters for this special club.

“It is not time to say goodbye; there are many more memories to create during the next four months.

“We still have a lot to fight for together; my complete focus will, as always, remain on giving my everything to help our club to succeed.”