Turkish football giants Galatasaray are reportedly eyeing a last-minute loan deal for Manchester United’s star midfielder, Casemiro, before the Turkish transfer window closes on September 13.
On Wednesday night, esteemed football transfer specialist, Fabrizio Romano, confirmed via X that Casemiro’s transfer to Galatasaray is complete.
He noted that Casemiro is heading to Galatasaray; the contract details have been finalized. The salary is approximately €15 million, with additional bonuses, and the agreement extends until June 2026.
“Casemiro to Galatasaray, here we go! Agreement sealed on every detail of the contract.Salary around €15m plus add-ons, contract until June 2026,” he wrote.
Meanwhile, the club has not yet issued an official statement regarding the deal.
The 32-year-old Brazilian, whose recent form has been under scrutiny, particularly after a dismal performance in United’s 3-0 home defeat to Liverpool, could be a target as the Turkish champions look to bolster their midfield options.
Casemiro’s lackluster showing in that match saw him substituted at half-time, with United academy graduate Toby Collyer taking his place on the field.
According to reports from The Times, Galatasaray has identified Casemiro as one of their potential midfield signings.
Also on their shortlist are French midfielder Adrien Rabiot, who is currently a free agent, and American international Weston McKennie, who plays for Juventus.
Since joining Manchester United in 2022 from Real Madrid in a deal valued at £70 million, Casemiro has faced a series of challenges. The midfielder has two years remaining on his current contract, but a move to Turkey would likely require United to subsidize part of his hefty £300,000-a-week wages. Galatasaray, fresh off winning the Turkish Super Lig last season, would need this financial support if the deal is to materialize.
The Turkish club has been active in the transfer market this summer, having secured Napoli’s prolific Nigerian striker, Victor Osimhen, on loan. Osimhen, who is rumoured to be one of the club’s highest earners, commands a weekly wage of around £160,000.
Casemiro’s transfer to Manchester United from Real Madrid, which came with a price tag of £60 million, was expected to add experience and solidity to United’s midfield.
However, the past year at Old Trafford has been a turbulent one for the Brazilian. His performance against Liverpool represented a significant low point, leading to increased criticism, notably from football pundit Jamie Carragher, who urged the midfielder to reconsider his career trajectory.
Carragher’s said, “leave the football before the football leaves you,” underscored how far Casemiro’s form had fallen, with his recent displays earning him the tag of a potential liability for the club.
Adding to the mounting pressure, United’s recent acquisition of Manuel Ugarte from PSG for £50 million threatens Casemiro’s starting role.
Ugarte, a younger defensive midfielder, was signed on the final day of the summer window, and his presence signals a shift in United’s midfield dynamic.
Despite the criticism, Casemiro has not been without support. His wife, Anna Mariana, responded to detractors following the Liverpool match by sharing an image of Casemiro’s glittering trophy collection on Instagram.
The post, which featured five Champions League titles and three La Liga trophies, was captioned with words of encouragement for her husband, “Always strong Casemiro, the biggest (heart).”
She also shared a photo of him celebrating with his United teammates, highlighting his resilience and accomplishments.
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag also addressed Casemiro’s struggles after the Liverpool game, defending the player’s character and contributions.
“I think that in football everyone has to take responsibility,” Ten Hag stated. “I’m sure he is a great character and he won everything in his career that you can imagine. I am sure he will keep contributing to our team and Casemiro is always winning so he will be there.”
As the Turkish transfer deadline looms, it remains to be seen whether Galatasaray will manage to secure the services of the experienced Brazilian.
