Lionel Messi plotting blockbuster move for United superstar next summer – report

Manchester United have quite the dilemma on their hands with regards to the future of midfield general Casemiro. After a difficult time initially under Ruben Amorim, the Brazilian has fought back to win over the head coach and is currently one of the first names on the team sheet. However, he is 33, and that shows on the pitch with the former Real Madrid superstar completing 90 minutes only three times this season. His contract ends next summer, but the club have the option of triggering a one-year extension clause included in his deal. Casemiro: new deal on reduced terms But since the Brazil international is the highest-paid player in the squad, INEOS have no intention of paying the same wages. CompetitionAppsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Premier League154151997′ EFL Cup–––––– Total154151997′ 25/26 season stats via Transfermarkt While Amorim prefers to keep the five-time Champions League winner, the co-owners remain keen on reducing the wage bill. Hence, new contract talks have involved a massive wage reduction. Multiple clubs are ready to offer him a much larger pay packet, including long-term admirers in the Saudi Pro League. However, a move across the Atlantic to the MLS seems to be the likeliest next destination, with three clubs eager to recruit a leader like Casemiro. Teamtalk have named New York City FC, Austin FC, and Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami as potential options. Chance to team-up with Lionel Messi “Multiple MLS clubs are actively working to lure the midfielder stateside, viewing him as a marquee signing capable of elevating the league’s profile further. “Sources highlight interest from sides like New York City FC, Austin FC, and Inter Miami, who see Casemiro’s winning mentality as ideal for mentoring emerging talent in a less physically demanding environment. “The appeal of life in the US, combined with competitive salaries under Designated Player rules, makes MLS the “most likely” next step if United’s proposal falls short of his expectations.” Whether the defensive midfielder will agree to United’s proposal at this stage of his career or choose to move to pastures new will be interesting to see. Feature image Julian Finney via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25