Inter Miami have sounded out Manchester United midfielder Casemiro over a potential move to the MLS.
Casemiro announced in January that this season would be his last at United after the club decided not to trigger the 12-month extension on his four-year contract because they want to move his £375,000-a-week salary off the wage bill.
LA Galaxy were considered favourites to sign Casemiro and are still expected to be in contention for the 34-year-old former Real Madrid star.
But the player sparked speculation over a move to Miami when he was spotted on holiday there last month, and the US club are tentatively looking into the possibility of signing him.
Casemiro would also have the added draw of playing alongside Lionel Messi, his old La Liga rival, who has extended his contract at Miami until 2028.
Despite entering the final few months of his United career, Casemiro is enjoying arguably his best season at United with seven goals from 30 appearances.
Inter Miami have sounded out Man United star Casemiro over a potential move to the MLS
If the move materialised, Casemiro would play alongside Lionel Messi at the franchise that is part-owned by David Beckham
It includes 29 Premier League starts but Casemiro has agreed to waive a clause in his contract guaranteeing him a 12-month extension if he reaches 35 by starting the last seven games.
Miami, the David Beckham part-owned franchise, had initially considered a summer move for the Brazilian would be too expensive because of the cost involved and the fact they already have big earners on their roster.
Clubs in the Saudi Pro League and Europe are also interested but Miami have now begun to take early soundings as they consider replacements for Sergio Busquets.
Casemiro is understood to have enjoyed the holiday with his family in Miami earlier this year and has told friends he would like the idea of living there.
Miami could not afford the midfielder’s wages as it stands, that would also breach MLS rules, but they are open to discussing what compromises Casemiro is willing to make.
Miami currently have all three Designated Player spots filled, so at this stage the approach is limited to an initial interest in the player’s situation and a potential opportunity.
United are assessing replacements for Casemiro while Manuel Ugarte could also follow him out the exit this summer.
Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali, Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace are all on United’s shortlist of targets.
