Casemiro ‘close’ to new club agreement ahead of final Man Utd game | Football | Sport

Casemiro is reportedly keen to join David Beckham’s Inter Miami once his Manchester United contract comes to an end, with insiders suggesting a deal with the MLS outfit is drawing ever closer.

The Brazilian midfielder confirmed in January that this would be his final season at Old Trafford. The 34-year-old, who arrived from Real Madrid in a deal worth £70million including add-ons four years ago, bid an emotional farewell to the ground at the weekend during his last home outing. He has been heavily linked with a move to the United States once United’s season concludes this weekend.

According to The Athletic, Casemiro’s preferred destination is Inter Miami, with the club said to be ‘closing in’ on securing his signature on a free transfer.

Nevertheless, the report flags a considerable stumbling block: LA Galaxy currently hold the discovery rights to negotiate with the seasoned midfielder and have already put forward several contract offers to him.

The regulation, which affords clubs priority in signing certain players, exists to prevent MLS sides from going head-to-head with one another for the same high-profile targets.

Previous disagreements have led to clubs paying compensation for discovery rights, though neither LA Galaxy nor Inter Miami currently hold a designated player slot to accommodate Casemiro.

Any deal to bring the multiple Champions League winner to Miami would need to fall below $2m (£1.48m), unless one of the club’s three designated player spots becomes vacant. Lionel Messi currently fills one of those positions at Beckham’s side.

Casemiro may yet feature once more before his departure when United travel to Brighton, but Sunday’s encounter against Nottingham Forest marked his final appearance at Old Trafford.

The midfielder shared a heartfelt message on social media following the match, expressing gratitude to both the club and its supporters, which read: “There are places we pass through in life… and there are places that become part of who we are. Manchester will forever be my home.

“To the city, the club, and every supporter, my sincerest thank you. These past four years have been unforgettable, filled with moments my family and I will carry with us for the rest of our lives.

“There simply aren’t enough words to describe the happiness and warmth we’ve felt here. Thank you for every cheer, every memory, and for making us feel at home from the very first day. Forever a Red Devil.”