Man Utd confirm £70m deal to sign Real Madrid legend Casemiro

Posted Tuesday, August 23, 2022 by Goal.com

The Brazilian arrives at Old Trafford after a stellar career with Real Madrid

Manchester United have confirmed the signing of Casemiro from Real Madrid as the Red Devils look to improve their fortunes following a rocky start to the season. Casemiro won five Champions Leagues in a nine-year spell with Los Blancos and Erik ten Hag will be hoping the Brazilian can bring some much-needed experience to the United midfield.

He joins the likes of Tyrell Malacia, Christian Eriksen and Lisandro Martinez among the club's summer signings.

How much have Man Utd paid for Casemiro?

Man Utd have shelled out an initial £60 million ($70m) on Casemiro, making him their sixth-most expensive signing ever.

They could yet pay a further £10m ($12m) in add-ons, too.

What is the length of Casemiro's contract at Man Utd?

Casemiro has penned a four-year contract at Old Trafford, with the potential of a further year, meaning he will be at Old Trafford until at least the summer of 2026.

His wages have increased, and while it won't quite reach double what he was on in the Spanish capital, he will still be among United's top earners.

What has been said about Casemiro joining Man Utd?

Manchester United have expressed their delight at signing Casemiro.

Madrid confirmed the deal, and included an emotional tribute to the Brazilian. They listed his honours while at the Spanish giants, which included five Champions Leagues and three La Liga titles.

They said: "Casemiro will always represent the values of our club. An exemplary player who has given everything for Real Madrid.

"Real Madrid is and will always be his home, and we wish him and his whole family the best of luck in this new stage of his life."

Casemiro added in an interview with the United website: "The opportunity to start a new challenge at Manchester United and in the Premier League is extremely exciting.

"I have worked with many great managers in my career and, having met with Erik and heard his ideas, I can't wait to work closely with him, his staff and my new team-mates in the coming years.

"I'm ending one beautiful journey in Madrid whilst starting another in Manchester as determined as ever to win football matches, win trophies and make our fans proud by bringing success to this great club.

"Everybody knows the history of Manchester United, the significance of the club around the world and what it means to its supporters. To represent United is an honour and I am ready to give everything to help the team achieve our ambitions."

Why have Man Utd signed Casemiro?

Manchester United have been looking to reinforce their midfield all summer, with number one target Frenkie de Jong seemingly not wanting to leave Barcelona.

In recent weeks, interest has turned, with Fabian Ruiz and Adrien Rabiot being lined up by United. However, French heavyweights Paris Saint-Germain look set to sign Ruiz while Rabiot was reportedly asking for huge wages in order to join the Red Devils.

Ten Hag has decided he can't rely on Scott McTominay and Fred for the remainder of the season so has stepped up his pursuit for a midfielder after so many setbacks.

How will Man Utd line up with Casemiro?

Casemiro will most likely be asked to sit at the base of midfield and help protect the back-four - the position he has occupied during his time in Madrid. Currently Ten Hag's squad appears to be lacking a player who is a natural in this position, so the Brazilian will almost certainly have an impact.

He will be hoping to strike up a partnership alongside his international compatriot Fred, as well as Bruno Fernandes and Christian Eriksen, and Ten Hag will be hoping that Casemiro's vast experience takes the onus off of his other midfielders from a defensive point of view and allows them to utilise their attacking talents.

Who will Man Utd sign next this summer?

Casemiro becomes United's fourth summer signing behind Tyrell Malacia, Christian Eriksen and Lisandro Martinez.

The Red Devils are looking to further strengthen their squad, with Barcelona full-back Sergino Dest on their radar as well as Yannick Carrasco. United have looked at Carrasco's Atletico Madrid teammate Matheus Cunha as well, but it is believed a nine-figure sum may be needed to lure the Brazilian to Old Trafford.

Dutch winger Cody Gakpo of PSV is heavily linked with the Manchester club, along with Antony of Ajax. The latter is thought to be valued by his club in excess of £90m ($106m), perhaps putting off interest from United.