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The simple prospect of sharing a pitch with Lionel Messi is reportedly so enticing to Casemiro that he is said to be "willing" to accept a reduced salary to facilitate a summer transfer to Inter Miami.
The Manchester United midfielder announced his forthcoming departure from Old Trafford in January, triggering a transfer scramble from clubs around the world. Casemiro's impressive recent showings for the Premier League's in-form side have only fueled the speculation further—with many at Manchester eager to retain the experienced midfielder for "one more year."
Nevertheless, the opportunity to join Major League Soccer appears too tempting for Casemiro to resist. Inter Miami are among several American clubs linked with the five-time Champions League champion, and Sky Sports News reports that the Herons hold the ultimate advantage: Messi.
Such is his reverence for the eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient, the report suggests that United's highest-paid player would be willing to lower his wage expectations. This concession could prove pivotal in Miami's pursuit given the stringent salary cap rules that govern MLS.
Messi is no stranger to Casemiro. The two have faced each other across two of football's greatest rivalries, repeatedly squaring off representing Barcelona, Argentina, Real Madrid, and Brazil. Despite years of fierce competition, the United midfielder clearly holds a deep admiration for the Argentine.
Casemiro's Clear Messi Stance
"I believe Messi defined an entire era," Casemiro told Placar in the summer of 2023. "He's always been a rival, always at Barcelona, always with Argentina. There's simply no getting away from him."
"It was a joy to watch him play, a joy to compete against him. I never had the chance to play alongside him, unfortunately," he added.
At that moment, it was pointed out that Messi was seeking a new club after departing Paris Saint-Germain earlier that summer. "If you want more, I'm available too," Casemiro laughed. Is the door open, he was asked. "For Messi, absolutely!"
Casemiro Puts Foot Down on Man Utd Future
It seems every Manchester United match now features supporters chanting for Casemiro to stay for "one more year." Some teammates have echoed the sentiment, yet no amount of goodwill appears capable of swaying the 34-year-old: his decision is final.
"I don't think there's any chance, there's simply no chance," Casemiro told ESPN. "Mainly because of what I've said, you know? Leave through the big door. I think these were four beautiful, wonderful years and I am forever grateful not just to the club, but to the supporters.
"But I feel I need to leave on good terms, I need to go out at my best. I will always be a United fan here in England and I simply want to express my gratitude for all the love from the fans."
There are also 24 million financial reasons for United to move on from Casemiro. The Red Devils stand to save the substantial annual wage the Brazilian would be owed next season—a figure that would rise above his current earnings following United's Champions League qualification.
While Casemiro is reportedly prepared to accept a lower salary for the chance to line up alongside Messi in Miami, there is no indication he would make the same financial sacrifice to remain at Manchester United.