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Exclusive: Casemiro Set for MLS as Ronaldo Saudi Fallout Ends Manchester United Reunion Hopes

Casemiro set to join MLS after Ronaldo's Saudi club fallout ends hopes of Manchester United reunion. LA Galaxy leads the race with interest from other MLS clubs, Portugal, and Spain. Return to Porto or staying in Primeira Liga also options for the Brazilian veteran.

Neil Goulding
Neil Goulding

Last updated: 2026-02-05

Louis Hobbs

2 minutes read

Al Nassr v Al Taawoun: Saudi Pro League

Al Nassr v Al Taawoun: Saudi Pro League by Abdullah Ahmed | Getty Images

Cristiano Ronaldo’s fall out with his Saudi Arabian club has scuppered proposed moves for a reunion with former Real Madrid and Manchester United team mate, Casemiro, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

And it is now expected the much-decorated midfielder will head to America once his contract at Old Trafford runs out at the end of the season.

But such has been Casemiro’s recent form, including a man of the match display in last Sunday’s 3-2 win over Fulham with a goal and assist, that several of Europe’s big leagues are eyeing the Brazilian veteran with interest.

MLS outfit LA Galaxy lead the race for his signature Stateside with other interested parties including Columbus Crew and San Diego.

However, Casemiro’s experience and pedigree is also wanted in Portugal and Spain. 

And while a return to Madrid is out of the question there is interest from Valencia, once one of Europe’s top sides, including twice Champions League runners-up, but now languishing in the lower reaches of La Liga.

HOT PURSUIT

However, further pursuit of the Old Trafford talisman will depend on whether the 2004 LA Liga and UEFA Cup winners can retain their top-flight status.

Casemiro spent a loan spell at Portuguese leaders Porto earlier in his career and a return to the Dragons in the summer isn’t out of the question.

The rigours of the Primeira Liga are less demanding than the Premier League and he would relish testing himself on the European stage for another 12 months at least.

News that 33-year-old Casemiro wouldn’t be offered a new deal at United initially sparked interest from Ronaldo’s Saudi side, Al Nassr.

Now though the Portuguese GOAT, who celebrates his 41st birthday today, is said to be questioning his future in the Middle East, underwhelmed by a lack of financial backing Al Nassr are receiving.

Neil Goulding
Neil GouldingSenior Sports Reporter

Neil is a highly experienced journalist with more than 25 years in the industry, having written for national newspapers and leading publications. Over the past three years, he has worked as a freelance sub-editor and writer for BBC Sport, contributing on the production desk and covering a wide range of sports.