Man Utd are 'prepared to cut their losses' on £70m star before the summer

Manchester United have a list of players they are looking to offload in order to boost their funds and Casemiro is among the names linked to an exit this year. The Brazilian's season has been hampered by injury and he hasn't featured for the club since November. Now, his time at Old Trafford looks like it is approaching an end.

Casemiro signed for United in 2022 from Real Madrid in a £70 million deal and immediately became a key figure in the starting lineup. He made 51 appearances across all competitions in his debut season, and contributed seven goals and six assists.

Despite still having two years left on his contract with United, the club have decided to transfer list him and move him on. According to the Daily Star, the Red Devils are 'prepared to cut their losses' and will look to come to an agreement with Casemiro before the summer.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos Group are planning to 'strike a pay-off agreement' with the 31-year-old, which may well 'amount to £20 million or even higher in lost earnings'. However, the board believe that getting him off the books sooner rather than later is the best decision.

Not only are they clearing space for potential new recruits but Casemiro is reportedly the club's joint-highest earner and high profile signings down the line will more than likely demand wages in a similar bracket.

The idea is to buy the Brazilian out by summer at the latest, if they agree a deal before then, Casemiro will be able to join any club as a free agent outside of the transfer windows.

During Casemiro's absence this season, rising star Kobbie Mainoo has impressed with his performances in the No.6 role and has started the last five Premier League fixtures under Erik ten Hag. The manager has also alternated between Christian Eriksen and Scott McTominay, leaving very little room for Casemiro to make his return to the starting lineup.