Premier League English

Casemiro could be released by Man Utd this summer with huge pay-off

Brazil international and Manchester United star are apparently ready to release Casemiro from his contract by the summer due to his inconsistent form and injuries marring his performance this season, according to Daily Star.

The former Real Madrid star joined the Red Devils from the Spanish capital club in a deal worth £70 million last season and displayed his impressive skills and vast experience in a good debut campaign with key contributions both defensively and offensively. However, the 31-year-old – looking clearly out of touch in the early weeks and has barely played since November after a hamstring injury – has struggled to replicate the sterling form he displayed last season.

With still two years left on his £350,000-a-week deal with an option for another 12 months, the latest news is that United are gunning to secure a mutual agreement for his early release as the Brazilian is currently the joint highest earner at United alongside compatriot Raphael Varane. Understandably Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his upcoming Board at United hope that his exit would avoid future transfer signings asking for parity.

Although United could sell Casemiro for a cut-price fee in the foreseeable future, they seem more inclined on taking the midfielder off their wage bill and are apparently even ready to make a huge pay-off of more than £20m to the star.