Exclusive: MLS the Preferred Destination for Casemiro, LAFC Leading the Chase

Following Manchester United’s official confirmation yesterday that Casemiro will depart Old Trafford this summer, the race for the Brazilian’s signature has hit a significant roadblock, his £350,000-per-week salary demands, 

While his representatives have been proactive in offering the five-time Champions League winner to LAFC, the player himself has yet to make a final decision, weighing his options across four different markets.

The MLS Dilemma 

Casemiro’s camp has identified the United States as a primary destination, but the financial structure remains a puzzle.

Currently the most concrete option where he has been officially offered, is LAFC. The club is keen, but needs to fit his wages into a "Designated Player" slot.

LA Galaxy and Atlanta United have both have expressed interest, viewing Casemiro as a transformative leader, but are wary of matching his current Premier League earnings.

Inter Miami could also be a destination. While the "Messi factor" is always there, their current salary cap makes a move for Casemiro highly unlikely unless he accepts a drastic pay cut.

SportsBoom sources revealed earlier this week that Manchester United did offer Casemiro a new contract, but on reduced terms, a deal the Brazilian rejected, knowing he could command higher wages in the US or Saudi Arabia.

The European Giants

Despite his age, Casemiro remains on the radar of clubs seeking immediate defensive stability. 

Juventus has held informal talks with his agents, seeking a veteran presence for their midfield. AC Milan is also monitoring the situation, though his wage demands currently exceed their internal salary cap.

A return to Spain is an attractive option for the Brazilian. Diego Simeone (Atletico Madrid) is a long-term admirer of his grit, while Real Betis is positioning itself as a surprise alternative for a "romantic" return to La Liga.

The Emotional Homecoming

Flamengo, Gremio, Atletico MG and São Paulo FC are dreaming of bringing their former star home. While they cannot compete with the £18m-a-year package he currently enjoys, they are hoping an "emotional project", and a long-term post-career role could tip the scales.

Sources close to the player confirm that Casemiro is currently unwilling to take a massive pay cut, which has slowed down negotiations. 

While he is tempted by the Saudi Pro League (Al-Nassr) for a final "mega-contract" reunion with Cristiano Ronaldo, his preference remains a move to a league with a higher lifestyle appeal for his family, like the MLS or a return to Spain.