Sir Jim Ratcliffe “takes a stand” against selling Manchester United’s Casemiro to Saudi Arabia.

If Sir Jim Ratcliffe wanted to raise money for his squad revamp at Manchester United, he might think about selling Casemiro to Saudi Arabia.

After Ratcliffe completes his 25% acquisition of the Red Devils, Casemiro—who has been connected to the Saudi Pro League in recent weeks—may head to the Middle East.

Ratcliffe’s £1.4 billion acquisition of a 25% stake in the Premier League team is almost complete. The Glazers will take charge of the business side, while the British millionaire will manage the sports division.

Many stars are supposedly in the firing line, and the INEOS head will reportedly supervise radical changes at Old Trafford. Erik ten Hag hasn’t been successful at United, and a significant change may be coming shortly.

The defensive midfielder Casemiro is one player rumored to be leaving. The Brazilian has struggled with form in 2023–24 after having a stellar season in his Premier League debut the previous year.

If a good deal comes up, Ratcliffe will then think about selling the former Real Madrid player to Saudi Arabia. The 31st of January may be the last opportunity for United to demand a high price for the player.

In August 2022, United paid £60 million to acquire Casemiro from Madrid. He was a revelation when he first arrived at Old Trafford, helping Ten Hag to overcome a terrible start to the previous campaign.

But Casemiro has struggled this season in United’s midfield due to a concerning downward trend in his form. In an attempt to challenge the veteran, Ten Hag brought in Sofyan Amrabat, but neither has really shown themselves.

Ratcliffe might finance a number of pricey new players with the money he would receive from a large fee for Casemiro. In order to contend with teams like Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool for the Premier League title, United needs to make significant on-field adjustments.

The £150 million spending binge this year does not seem to have paid off. Mason Mount, a £65 million acquisition, has not fared well, and Rasmus Hojlund, a £72 million acquisition, has needed some time to adjust to life in the Premier League and may require the assistance of a striker with more experience.

However, United will need to let go of a number of underperforming players in order to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations after making such large purchases in recent years. Considering his age and high pay, Casemiro’s exit may be the most likely.