Casemiro was set to leave Manchester United this summer (Image: Getty Images)
Manchester United face an uncertain summer ahead, with widespread speculation over whether Michael Carrick will remain in position to shape transfer decisions. Nevertheless, multiple storylines surrounding player movements are already emerging within the existing squad.
The club’s summer recruitment strategy will heavily depend on their final league position this campaign. Carrick has rekindled optimism after guiding the side back to third place in the Premier League table. That position faces a stern examination on Sunday, though, as the Red Devils welcome Aston Villa to Old Trafford. It’s third versus fourth in a crucial six-pointer, with both sides eager to secure Champions League football for next season.
Notably, two experienced players who seemed certain to depart may now remain following the recent upturn in form. Here, Express Sport examines some of the key narratives currently circulating around the Theatre of Dreams.
Casemiro ‘considering’ U-turn on exit
Former United midfielder Kleberson has indicated that Casemiro is now “thinking about” remaining at Old Trafford despite previously confirming his exit. Casemiro revealed in January that he would depart upon the expiry of his contract in June.
Compatriot Kleberson has now added weight to suggestions that the altered circumstances under Carrick might prompt him to reconsider that choice. The ex-midfielder insists the 34-year-old could still provide significant value to the team.
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“I know he cost a lot of money, but he has really brought some leadership to the club,” he told Goal. “That is also why he came back into the Brazilian national team and why he will play in the World Cup. He really brings the leadership and he does that as well in Man United. He is a great team-mate and a great competitor.
“Of course, we can’t compare his leadership to Roy Keane’s because that was completely different, but he knows the rules at Man United. I think he is happy at Man United, but the club has never been in a good position. I still think he would like to stay at Man United, or at least he is thinking about it because it has gone so well under Michael Carrick.”
The Brazilian midfielder, who ranks as United’s highest earner on approximately £350,000 per week, has a clause in his contract that would allow the club to extend his deal by a further 12 months. Kleberson appears to support the club triggering it.
Harry Maguire is out of contract after this season. (Image: Getty Images) Stay up-to-date with the latest Man Utd news Join us on WhatsApp
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“I really want him to stay at Man United,” he continued. “He knows about the passion the club and the fans have. He is always working hard and plays up to the level you expect from a Man United player.
“To bring a guy in like him will be very tough. Man United used to have a lot of those players, but they don’t have these players anymore. Casemiro is like that – Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, he brings that sort of leadership.”
Maguire open to wage reduction
Another seasoned veteran within United’s squad, Maguire has likewise enhanced his prospects of remaining beyond the current season. This follows a report from The i Paper suggesting he’s willing to slash his wages by half to secure a new contract.
Maguire, who celebrated his 33rd birthday this month, currently pockets a substantial £190,000 each week at Old Trafford. But he would be prepared to accept a significantly reduced £100,000-a-week package if it guaranteed him a renewed deal.
This could prove a shrewd move for United, given their mix of emerging talents and centre-backs struggling with consistent fitness. Matthijs de Ligt has been grappling with a persistent back issue recently, whilst Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw have both suffered lengthy injury lay-offs.
Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven have the potential to form United’s central defensive partnership for years to come. Yet, the duo are still maturing.
No decision has been reached regarding offering Maguire a new contract. Nevertheless, his chances are significantly bolstered by the financial concession he’s willing to make to remain a United player.
