Casemiro is reportedly close to reaching an agreement to join a new club just days before Manchester United’s final match of the season.
Back in January, Casemiro announced that he would be leaving Old Trafford this summer following the expiration of his contract. Now, the veteran Brazilian midfielder seems to have decided on his next destination. He is highly keen on joining David Beckham’s Inter Miami and is reportedly on the verge of striking a deal with the Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise.
The MLS Complication: Discovery Rights and DP Spots
The 34-year-old, who joined the Red Devils from Real Madrid four years ago in a deal worth up to £70 million including add-ons, bid an emotional farewell to the Old Trafford faithful last weekend during his final home game. He is heavily expected to relocate to the United States once the Premier League season concludes this weekend.
According to a report by The Athletic, Casemiro wants to move to Inter Miami, and the club is “closing in” on signing him on a free transfer. However, the report highlights a significant hurdle regarding any potential deal: LA Galaxy currently holds Casemiro’s “Discovery Rights” in MLS and has already submitted several contract offers to the player.
Under MLS regulations, the Discovery Rights rule allows teams to claim priority to sign certain players, preventing a bidding war among clubs for high-profile international stars. In the past, teams have had to pay allocation money to acquire a player’s discovery rights from a rival club.
Furthermore, neither LA Galaxy nor Inter Miami currently have an open Designated Player (DP) spot on their rosters. This means that any contract to bring Casemiro to Miami would have to be valued at under $2 million (£1.48 million) per year, unless one of Inter Miami’s current Designated Players departs. Global icon Lionel Messi currently occupies one of those three coveted DP spots for the Florida-based club.
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An Emotional Farewell to Old Trafford
Casemiro could make one final appearance for Manchester United when they travel to face Brighton in the 38th round of the Premier League on Sunday. However, the recent 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest marked his final bow at Old Trafford.
Following the match, Casemiro shared a deeply emotional statement on social media, expressing his heartfelt gratitude to Manchester United and its supporters.
“There are places we pass through in life… and there are places that become a part of who we are. Manchester will forever be my home,” Casemiro wrote.
“To the city, the club, and all the fans, my deepest thanks. The last four years have been unforgettable, filled with moments that my family and I will cherish for the rest of our lives. It is hard to fully express the happiness and warmth we have felt here. Thank you for every cheer, every memory, and for making us feel at home from day one. Forever a Red Devil.”
