Three Saudi Pro League clubs are interested in signing Manchester United midfielder Casemiro.

The Brazilian has endured a difficult second season at the Red Devils after his £70million move from Real Madrid in August 2022. That has seen him face criticism for his performances, particularly after the 4-0 defeat at Crystal Palace earlier this month where he had been used as a centre-back.

With Sir Jim Ratcliffe set to undergo an overhaul of his United squad, Casemiro could leave Old Trafford this summer. According to GOAL Brazil, the 32-year-old has become the next main target for Saudi Arabia, with Al-Nassr, Al-Ahli and Al-Qasdiya credited with an interest.

It is suggested that Al-Ahli, who boast the likes of Riyah Mahrez and Roberto Firmino among their ranks, and Al-Qasidiya have shown the ‘most interest’ in his services. If Casemiro moves to the Middle East, he would join former United team-mates Alex Telles and Cristiano Ronaldo out there.

The report added that not only would clubs match his salary at United but a lucrative proposal would also be put on the table. Although Al-Nassr are interested in signing Casemiro, they are not set to prioritise signing a central midfielder with Marcelo Brozovic already in that area.

Despite being linked with an exit, Casemiro insisted he is currently happy at United. He said: “I’m well, I’m happy, living every day I get to play here. As I usually say, Manchester United gave me what I wanted.

“This joy of being able to enjoy the game, enjoy the Premier League. So, I’m happy to be here at Manchester United and enjoying the game.”

Ratcliffe, a minority shareholder at United, is not a huge fan of Casemiro. Back in October even before his move was confirmed, Ratcliffe reportedly openly criticised the signing of Casemiro during a face-to-face meeting with United executives, which included Richard Arnold and John Murtough.

Manchester United midfielder Casemiro

Casemiro did not feature for Manchester United in the FA Cup final 

Image:

Getty Images)

Rumours of Casemiro potentially moving to Saudi Arabia comes a matter of days after he told Erik ten Hag that he did not want to play in the FA Cup final against Manchester City. Ten Hag said before the game that Casemiro was not 100 per cent fit but still named him on the bench.

Although his name was on the teamsheet, the midfielder told Ten Hag he did not want to play any part and withdrew from the squad completely, with Willy Kambwala taking his place. According to BBC Sport, Casemiro informed Ten Hag that he felt a tight hamstring and requested not even to be involved as a substitute.

Casemiro was pictured with the FA Cup after their 2-1 victory over City at Wembley and signed a letter to supporters written by United players on Sunday promising improved performances next term. Casemiro made an appearance at their post-season party but quickly jetted off with his family on holiday.