Casemiro has been scrutinized for his performances this season, with many Manchester United fans seeing him as replaceable. However, he has stepped up recently for the English club. But with the club in a financial crisis, the veteran star needs to be sold over the summer to help fund United's transfer targets.
Casemiro's potential wage increase
Casemiro already has a hefty wage at United, and a spot in the Champions League would see his earnings rise even more. The qualification for European football would give United players a 25% wage increase. This would take Casemiro to £300,000 a week.
United are in a good position to advance to the Europa League finals, having a 3-0 advantage over Athletic Club. Should United advance to the finals, they will play either Tottenham or FK Bodø/Glimt. Manchester United are still unbeaten in Europe this season, which gives them an edge in the competition.
What would offloading Casemiro do?
With the potential for a big pay raise, Casemiro should be sold by United. Despite his heroic performances, Casemiro is an older player and it would do United good to sell the midfielder. His wage increase would put the team in a worse financial state than they have now. Manchester United must get £15 million for the midfielder to avoid a loss of funds.
There has been interest in the past from Saudi clubs for Casemiro, although these rumors came to nothing last summer. Saudi clubs have made big splashes into investments of Premier League stars, so it wouldn't be entirely out of the question for United to get the £15 million required.
Bringing in a replacement for Casemiro is essential, though. Casemiro has proven to be crucial to the team, especially in Europe. He is still capable of picking out his teammates going forward and providing important crosses into the box. Off the ball, Casemiro has come up big with headers finding the back of the net.
Who could replace Casemiro at Man United?
United have both Kobbie Mainoo and Toby Collyer as potential replacements already within the squad. However, Mainoo's future is still uncertain with the club and Collyer has faced multiple injuries that have caused long-term absences for the youngster.
Ruben Amorim is likely looking to bring in another midfielder to replace Casemiro. The manager will want to bring in a younger, more fit player who can be a staple in the midfield for seasons to come. One player that the English club is reportedly keen on is Ederson.
Ederson has been a stand-out performer for Atalanta, and United are looking into a move for the 25-year-old midfielder. It's likely that Ederson will make the move if United qualifies for the Champions League, but he is a good contender to take over Casemiro's spot in the midfield.