Manchester United star Casemiro is likely to be included in the starting line-up for the Premier League opener against Fulham. Manager Erik ten Hag has been unable to sanction Casemiro’s departure or secure Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain, sources have revealed.
Active Transfer Market Activity
The Red Devils have been active this transfer window, securing teenage defender Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee after agreeing on a deal worth up to £58.9 million with Lille. However, more transfers are expected before the August 30 deadline.
Backroom Staff Overhaul
Ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, ten Hag has refreshed his backroom staff, with Manchester United icon Ruud van Nistelrooy joining as an assistant manager. The team has been rigorously preparing since returning for pre-season.
Casemiro’s Prospects at Old Trafford
Initially, it appeared Casemiro was set to exit, relieving Manchester United of his £450,000-per-week wage bill when bonuses are included. However, with no takers, he has been involved in the pre-season tour in the United States. GMS sources reveal that Casemiro is likely to start against Fulham due to the club’s failure to land a new defensive midfield option.
Manchester United remain determined to sign Ugarte, identified by ten Hag as a priority to strengthen the backline. However, negotiations with PSG have been complicated, leaving Ugarte still at Parc des Princes.
Casemiro, who joined Manchester United for up to £70 million from Real Madrid in August 2022, started in the pre-season defeat to Arsenal. With his future uncertain, he is set to feature in the next stage of the United States tour against Real Betis.
Saudi Interest and Potential Departure
Despite interest from the Saudi Pro League, no bid has materialized for Casemiro, forcing Manchester United to reconsider his future. The club remains open to offloading him if a suitable offer arrives, but ten Hag knows that keeping Casemiro would lessen the urgency to secure Ugarte.
GMS sources indicate Manchester United hopes to negotiate a cut-price deal for Ugarte, who is not central to PSG’s plans for the upcoming season.
Conclusion
As the Premier League season approaches, Casemiro’s chances of starting against Fulham are strong due to ongoing transfer complications. While Manchester United remains active in the transfer market, securing Ugarte’s signature from PSG remains a priority. Casemiro’s immediate future at Old Trafford looks likely, barring any significant offers before the transfer deadline.
