Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim could force Casemiro to take a pay cut amid contract decision

Manchester United are considering their options for the summer transfer window already, with key midfielder Casemiro’s extremely lucrative current contract due to expire

Ruben Amorim could push for Manchester United to extend Casemiro’s contract on one condition after being impressed by his performances this season. The veteran midfielder’s current deal is due to expire on June 30, but United have the option to extend it by 12 months.

Casemiro was linked with a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia in the summer transfer window, but made it clear that he wanted to stay at Old Trafford and fight for his place in Amorim’s side. The 33-year-old, who cost £70million from Real Madrid in 2022, has done just that, re-establishing himself as Amorim’s first-choice in central midfield.

He has been crucial to United this season, returning three goals and one assist in 10 Premier League appearances. His form has also helped revitalise his international career with Brazil, where his former Real manager Carlo Ancelotti has been similarly impressed.

Casemiro was handed a contract worth around £350,000-a-week when he joined United over three years ago. And his sky-high wages have often been used as an argument for letting him go when his deal expires in the summer.

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But his efforts this season are earning him plenty of supporters inside the club, not least with Amorim himself, who talkSPORT says is considering keeping him for another year. Casemiro is a hugely popular member of the squad and his experience and leadership qualities have been crucial in the team’s upturn in form of late.

Amorim would reportedly support a contract extension for Casemiro, who turns 34 in February, provided he agrees to take a pay cut. Asked about his performances after the 4-2 win over Brighton last month, Amorim said: “I think he gives a lot of experience. He’s an example for everyone.

“In the beginning, he was behind every midfielder, even Toby [Collyer], but he fought and he worked, and now he’s back in the national team. He’s so important for us.”

Amorim was asked about Casemiro’s situation before the draw with Tottenham on the weekend. He said: “Yeah, we don’t know what is going to happen. My goal is to continue to count with Casemiro, with Harry Maguire, that he has the same problem.

“I don’t know what is going to happen. Let’s focus on this season. I’m really happy with Casemiro, he is really important. I’m really happy with Harry, but I know what you guys are asking, let’s focus on this season and then we’ll see the next season.”

And Casemiro has addressed his plans too. “Football is my life, right? So it’s inevitable [to continue],” he said. “But I think my wife and family will want some time for themselves, yes.

“I’m one of those who think that in life you have to have a plan. But I’m into short-term goals. Of course, it’s inevitable to think about being in good shape for a World Cup, but you can’t expect to be in good shape for the World Cup if you’re not doing well at Manchester United.”

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