Manchester United have no plans to U-turn on Casemiro decision

Manchester United has no plans to back down on its decision to release experienced midfielder Casemiro at the end of the season.

The 34-year-old Brazilian announced he would leave the club when his £350,000-a-week contract expires in January.

Despite his strong performances this season, United have concluded they will not offer a new deal to the former Real Madrid midfielder, who will be transferred on a free transfer.

Company co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has previously expressed disbelief in Casemiro’s £18.2 million annual salary and the 73-year-old has promised to cut costs.

This was thought to be behind Casemiro’s decision not to trigger his contract option; United wanted to make the decision early to allow them to continue with their long-term squad overhaul.

Casemiro requested that the news be made public to avoid any confusion towards the end of the season.

But since then, Casemiro has put in a string of excellent performances.

He scored his seventh goal of the season against Aston Villa on Sunday, including six headers.

The midfielder celebrated outside the Stretford End by repeatedly pointing to the club crest on his shirt.

The fans sang “One more year Casemiro” in response and repeated it as the player headed towards the tunnel after the final whistle.

Captain Bruno Fernandes and defender Leny Yoro said after the match that they hoped Casemiro would stay at the club.

However, sources told BBC Sport that the club has no plans to re-evaluate its decision.

Interim head coach Michael Carrick also suggested there would be no U-turn in Casemiro’s future at Old Trafford.

“Once something is decided, it makes it a little easier and everyone understands the situation,” Carrick said.

“The impact he had within the team, through his big moments and goals, was fantastic.

“It was a nice moment with the fans at the end. He will enjoy it.”