Casemiro's MLS Move: Which Three Clubs Are Leading the Chase for the Brazilian Star?
Casemiro has established himself as one of the premier defensive midfielders globally over the last ten years—however, with his Manchester United tenure appearing to near its conclusion, sources suggest a move to Major League Soccer is 'most probable' for the 33-year-old.
The Brazilian secured five Champions League titles with Real Madrid during his prime years, helping establish the club as the preeminent power in international football. He subsequently pursued a fresh opportunity in the Premier League, where he hasn't managed to replicate those elite standards at a United squad undergoing significant transformation.
Casemiro's form declined so dramatically throughout 2024–25 that it appeared certain he would be ushered out of United early to eliminate his reported £375,000-per-week salary burden from the books.
However, he has regained stability and returned as a dependable contributor for United—netting four goals across 15 Premier League matches this campaign demonstrates this resurgence—though he's unlikely to remain beyond this season's conclusion as his contract expires.
While the Saudi Pro League has expressed interest, MLS appears to be Casemiro's destination—similar to Son Heung-min, who departed Tottenham Hotspur for LAFC last summer. Preferably, teams would secure his services before the 2026 campaign begins on Feb. 21, though completing negotiations before summer seems improbable.
Here are Sports Illustrated's three potential destinations should MLS become his next chapter.
3. New York City FC
It would undoubtedly be strange witnessing a former Manchester United icon wearing the sky blue of City Football Group, but few MLS franchises would be better positioned to accommodate Casemiro than New York City FC.
Utilizing various three, four and five-defender formations during the 2025 campaign, based on their offensive personnel availability, NYCFC demonstrated tactical flexibility in their inaugural season under head coach Pascal Jansen. Among their most notable developments was Justin Haak's evolution, who transformed into a legitimate center-back after previously excelling in defensive midfield.
With Haak currently an unsigned free agent, Casemiro should feature on NYCFC's shortlist as a potential successor, even if it requires deploying him as a more offensive-minded center-back rather than his traditional defensive midfield role. Simultaneously, NYCFC are presumably seeking a marquee acquisition for their inaugural season at Etihad Park in 2027, and at 33, Casemiro could serve as both a short and medium-term solution.
2. Columbus Crew
Columbus Crew face a pivotal offseason with numerous uncertainties that could impact any potential Casemiro pursuit. The primary concern involves their coaching situation, where former manager Wilfried Nancy might return after departing for Celtic—a stint that has started poorly and placed him under significant supporter pressure.
After resolving their managerial situation, the Brazilian could represent an attractive option as someone capable of operating more as a central midfielder with forward momentum while maintaining defensive capabilities. His main responsibility would involve replacing Darlington Nagbe's tenacious presence in their 4-4-2 formation's center, offering a different profile than his current Manchester United role.
Similar precedent exists with Rodrigo De Paul's development at Inter Miami. The Argentine hasn't operated as deep as in previous environments and has enhanced their attack. Meanwhile, his tactical awareness and MLS's reduced pace have enabled his adjustment to defensive schemes—the same could apply to Casemiro, though he would likely need to sign as a non-designated player.
1. Austin FC
Among the few clubs possessing genuine roster flexibility within their Designated Player allocations and harboring ambitious goals, Casemiro could serve as Ilie Sánchez's starting lineup replacement at Austin FC. The organization might be willing to invest substantially in him, having recently sold underperforming DP striker Osman Bukari to Polish club Widzew Łódź for $6.5 million.
Employing both 3-4-3 and 4-4-2 formations under manager Nico Estévez, Austin struggled in midfield during their opening playoff round against LAFC, with the Sánchez-Daniel Pereira partnership unable to match the California team's rapid transitions.
Co-owned by Hollywood actor Matthew McConaughey, Austin have already executed one major offseason acquisition by securing Jayden Nelson from Vancouver Whitecaps FC for their wing. Now, adding a transitional player offering superior abilities compared to MLS veteran Sánchez could prove compelling—particularly given their roster flexibility.