Casemiro's United contract hinges on a start-heavy clause, potentially keeping him at Old Trafford despite midfield needs.
There are several issues with the Manchester United team. There have been ever since Sir Alex Ferguson left, nearly 13 years ago. So much so that it is often hard to pinpoint which issue needs addressing first, which has, in turn, left basically none of the issues being solved.
However, one issue that most fans agree has been a priority for years is the midfield. For a while now, United have constantly been overrun in the middle of the park, due to a lack of mobility and athleticism in there
Although his performances have somewhat improved, Casemiro has been a big problem when it comes to that. Even in his prime, he was never the most dynamic player, but he moves like he's towing a truck these days.
It is clear that for the team to progress, they need more mobile players in the middle of the park. For a year or two now, the Brazilian has been linked with a move to places like the Middle East.
As it stands, the 33-year-old's contract is set to expire in the summer; however, that could change. As per Ben Jacobs via Terry Flewers, Casemiro has a clause in his contract that allows him to trigger a one-year extension if he starts 35 games this season.
That said, United, infamously, will only play 40 games this season. Two of which were cup games, neither of which the midfielder started. This means he would have to start those 35 games in the league.
So far, he has started 18 of 21 Premier League games, meaning he would have to start every single game from here. One game a week means it's possible, but you'd be more likely to bet against it if you had to choose
Although there is no doubt that Casemiro is a legend of the game, and he has had some good moments in a United shirt, they really do need to move forward, so you'd hope that doesn't happen.
Sure, as a backup player who could fill in here and there and be an experienced mentor for the younger players, it doesn't sound too bad. But, you'd have thought the extension would be on the same (or at least similar) wages as before, which is just too much money for that sort of role.
Let's hope that in the summer, United can thank him for his contributions, wish him well for the future, and shake hands.