Saudi clubs are making a concerted effort to sign Manchester United midfielder Casemiro

According to The Telegraph, Saudi clubs are making a concerted effort to sign Manchester United midfielder Casemiro, and they are also interested in Bruno Fernandes, although this is less likely.

Sources indicate that up to 10 high-profile players are expected to join the Saudi Pro League this summer. Among them, Al-Nassr is most closely linked with Casemiro. It is reported that Casemiro's agent has already held talks with Saudi Pro League clubs. Manchester United are willing to sell Casemiro and hope to reach an agreement as soon as the transfer window opens, but they will not force him to leave.

The Saudi Pro League is also discussing potential transfers for Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson and Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson. Reports suggest that Al-Ittihad attempted to sign Mohamed Salah with a £150 million bid last year but were unsuccessful. Additionally, Kevin De Bruyne is also attracting interest.

Similar to last summer, Saudi Arabia seems poised to target Premier League players once again. Premier League clubs are also open to deals, recognizing that they can secure higher prices compared to other markets. Manchester United has established contacts with clubs in the Saudi Pro League, with the closest relationship being with Al-Ittihad.

Former United football director John Murtough has made two trips to Saudi Arabia for negotiations and relationship building. Despite leaving the club, he traveled with United's head of player negotiations, Matt Hargreaves, which was a strategic decision.

Murtough was aware of the possibility of his departure, so Hargreaves will maintain continuity with the contacts. Hargreaves is being integrated into United's new leadership structure under technical director Darren Fletcher and incoming chief executive Dan Ashworth.

It is expected that transfer activity in the Saudi Pro League will significantly increase in the upcoming window. However, the Saudi Pro League recognizes that the transfer window offers an opportunity to boost its profile. Saudi Pro League clubs have filled their foreign player slots but have some flexibility, with some signed players potentially being transferred out, leading to more targeted deals.

Casemiro has had a poor season and was recently left out of Brazil's Copa America squad, making his transfer highly likely.

Whether Bruno Fernandes will be one of the departing Manchester United players remains to be seen. United's new owners recognize that he remains a crucial member of the team, both as a player and as a leader. His importance has been highlighted in his absence. However, if an extraordinary offer for Fernandes comes in and he is interested in leaving, it could be considered. Previously, Al-Hilal expressed interest in Fernandes, and having just won the Saudi Pro League title, Al-Ittihad would also be interested if there are any indications of his availability.