Man Utd Transfer News: Mourinho Eyes Casemiro Reunion at Fenerbahce

Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce is reportedly considering a surprise move for Manchester United midfielder Casemiro in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Casemiro’s Impact and Recent Form

The 32-year-old Brazilian made a significant impact during his first season at Old Trafford, forming a successful partnership with Christian Eriksen. His contributions helped Manchester United secure a third-place finish in the Premier League and win the EFL Cup. In the 2023-24 season, Casemiro remained a key player for Erik ten Hag’s side, adding an FA Cup medal to his accolades.

Despite registering five goals and three assists in 32 matches last season, Casemiro’s form was perceived to have declined, particularly in the second half of the season, where teenager Kobbie Mainoo outshone him. Additionally, Casemiro was often deployed as a makeshift centre-back, a position in which he faced criticism.

Potential Move to Fenerbahce

According to Turkish outlet Sporx, Fenerbahce chief Mario Branco is assessing the feasibility of a deal for Casemiro. While Manchester United paid £59.7 million for Casemiro in the summer of 2022, they acknowledge they won’t recoup a similar fee, even though he is under contract until 2026 with an optional additional year.

Fenerbahce faces competition from the Saudi Pro League, but there are incentives for Casemiro to stay in Europe. Fenerbahce will compete in the second qualifying round of the 2024-25 Champions League, and Casemiro could reunite with Mourinho, who managed him at Real Madrid.

Mourinho and Casemiro’s History

Mourinho brought Casemiro to Real Madrid’s Castilla side from Sao Paulo on loan in the 2012-13 season, eventually making the move permanent. Mourinho gave Casemiro his senior debut for Real Madrid, playing the full 90 minutes in a 3-1 win over Real Betis in April 2013.

Additional Interest from Fenerbahce

If Casemiro joins Fenerbahce, he could be one of two Manchester United players making the move. Fenerbahce is also interested in Swedish centre-back Victor Lindelof, who has just 12 months left on his contract. Despite Raphael Varane’s confirmed departure, Ten Hag is reportedly open to letting Lindelof leave to avoid losing him on a free transfer next year.

This potential transfer activity highlights Mourinho’s efforts to strengthen Fenerbahce by reuniting with players he knows and trusts.