Arjun Menon
MLS Clubs Circle Brazilian Midfielder as Free Agent Option
Inter Miami and LA Galaxy are tracking Manchester United midfielder Casemiro ahead of his departure from Old Trafford this summer. The Brazilian confirmed last month his intention to leave the Premier League in June after Manchester United declined to exercise a one-year contract extension. Both MLS clubs face a structural obstacle: neither currently holds an available Designated Player slot.
Addressing Midfield Gaps
The interest from two of MLS’s flagship franchises reflects Casemiro’s proven profile. A defensive midfielder who secured every major trophy at Real Madrid, he represents the caliber of midfielder MLS clubs typically covet. LA Galaxy lost Riqui Puig to a second ACL injury within two years, creating an acute midfield shortage. Inter Miami has struggled to adequately replace Sergio Busquets since his December retirement.
Salary Cap Complications
Inter Miami currently holds three Designated Players: Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, and German Berterame, all locked into multi-year deals. LA Galaxy won’t have a DP slot available until 2027. Both scenarios would require Casemiro to accept a substantial salary reduction from his current Manchester United wages, at least in the immediate term.
An Uneven Red Devils Chapter
Casemiro’s tenure at Manchester United has underperformed expectations. He arrived from Real Madrid in 2022 for approximately $80 million but coincided with the club’s domestic and European struggles. Over three full seasons, he accumulated 155 appearances and two trophies despite substantial squad investment by the club.
Manchester United sits third in the Premier League with seven matches remaining in their pursuit of Champions League qualification. Casemiro maintains his status as a crucial figure for Brazil under new manager Carlo Ancelotti, with scheduled international friendlies this week underscoring his continued importance to the national team.
Follow TipsGG for further developments on Casemiro’s summer destination and MLS transfer activity.