Al-Nassr, a Saudi Pro League team, has set its sights on recruiting Manchester United midfielder Casemiro. This interest stems from the club’s readiness to part ways with one of their high-profile signings from 2023 in the same position. Foot Mercato reports that Cristiano Ronaldo, Al-Nassr’s first major signing last year and a former Man Utd forward, has advised his current club to pursue the acquisition of his former Real Madrid teammate, Casemiro.
Despite Casemiro facing an uncertain future at Manchester United, where his signing in 2022 has come under scrutiny from incoming investor Sir Jim Ratcliffe, he remains under contract until 2026. However, the club does not see him as a long-term solution in the defensive midfield position. If Al-Nassr decides to offload him in 2024, it appears that the Saudi Pro League is the most probable destination, with Al-Nassr emerging as the potential next club, as indicated by Foot Mercato.
Ronaldo’s influence seems evident in Al-Nassr’s interest, and Casemiro is reportedly intrigued by the challenge of playing in Saudi Arabia. Although the Al-Nassr squad has reached its foreign player limit, potential departures could open up a spot for Casemiro.
Seko Fofana, a player currently with Al-Nassr, is reportedly free to leave in January. His departure could trigger interest from other clubs in the Saudi Pro League, potentially creating an opening for Casemiro. The surprise element here is that Fofana might still stay within the Saudi Pro League, possibly replacing Jordan Henderson at Al-Ettifaq or joining Al-Shabab if Jose Mourinho becomes their manager.
The speculated move for Casemiro is attracting attention, and Al-Nassr’s ability to sign another foreign player after Fofana’s departure might facilitate their bid for the Brazilian midfielder. Alternatively, Ronaldo’s team could use the extra foreign player spot to bring back David Ospina, the former Arsenal goalkeeper who was omitted while injured.
Casemiro’s potential transfer is something to watch closely, especially as Manchester United evaluates his future at Old Trafford. His arrival at Al-Nassr could contribute title-winning experience, enhancing their quest for the top spot in the Saudi Pro League, given his impressive list of honors from his time at Real Madrid, many of which were achieved alongside Ronaldo.
Al-Nassr currently sits second in the Saudi Pro League, trailing leaders Al Hilal by seven points. The notion is that bringing in Casemiro mid-season could aid them in closing the gap, even though it would mean interrupting a season in which he has made 12 appearances and scored four goals for Manchester United, with his last Premier League appearance dating back to October due to injury.