1 min read
Football Insider

Casemiro: Could the Brazilian Midfielder Follow in the Footsteps of Beckham and Ibrahimovic at LA Galaxy?

The LA Galaxy are reportedly exploring a free transfer swoop for Manchester United midfielder Casemiro. The Brazil international has confirmed his departure from Old Trafford at the end of the season and has attracted interest from MLS side LA Galaxy and clubs in Saudi Arabia. Could Casemiro be the next United cult hero to make a mark in Los Angeles?

Casemiro: Could the Brazilian Midfielder Follow in the Footsteps of Beckham and Ibrahimovic at LA Galaxy?

The LA Galaxy are reportedly 'exploring' a free transfer swoop for Manchester United midfielder Casemiro. The Brazil international, who is enjoying a resurgence under Red Devils interim manager Michael Carrick, has confirmed he will leave Old Trafford upon the expiration of his contract in June, and has also been linked with a lucrative switch to Saudi Arabia.Casemiro joined United from Real Madrid in a £70m ($96m) deal back in 2022, and has since racked up 148 appearances for the Red Devils, along with 22 goals. The 33-year-old has been a key player again this season, and arguably the standout performer in United's three successive wins under Carrick, who took the first team reins after Ruben Amorim's sacking in January. The Brazilian has, however, confirmed that this will be his final year at Old Trafford, and speculation over his next move has been rife.According to the Daily Mail, the LA Galaxy are now looking into whether they could sign Casemiro under the designated player rule in MLS. Introduced in 2007 when David Beckham joined the Galaxy, the designated player rule allows MLS teams to sign up to three players whose salaries and acquisition costs exceed the league's salary budget, or "cap".Casemiro could become the third United cult hero to play for the Galaxy after Beckham and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The former won two MLS Cups at the club before leaving in 2012, while Ibrahimovic played at Dignity Health Sports Park for two seasons between 2018 and 2019.The Mail adds that United would have considered taking up their one-year extension option for Casemiro had it not been for his £375,000-a-week wages. It remains to be seen whether the Galaxy will be willing to meet his salary demands, but it wouldn't be an issue for clubs in Saudi Arabia. Casemiro reportedly turned down a switch to Al-Nassr last summer, which would have seen him reunite with Cristiano Ronaldo, but he continues to attract interest from the Saudi Pro League. Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingFor now, Casemiro remains focused on his duties at United, who are sitting fourth in the Premier League table with 14 matches left to play this season. Carrick's side are due back in action at home to Tottenham on Saturday, and will take in a trip to relegation-threatened West Ham three days later as they continue their push for Champions League qualification.

1

Casemiro's Impressive Journey at Manchester United

Casemiro joined Manchester United from Real Madrid in a record deal back in 2022. Since then, he has become a key player for the Red Devils, making significant contributions on the field with his skills and leadership. Under interim manager Michael Carrick, Casemiro has excelled, showcasing his abilities and helping the team secure important victories.

2

LA Galaxy's Interest and the Designated Player Rule

Reports suggest that the LA Galaxy are considering a move for Casemiro under the designated player rule in the MLS. This rule allows teams to sign players whose salaries exceed the league's budget constraints. If the move materializes, Casemiro could follow in the footsteps of legends like David Beckham and Zlatan Ibrahimovic who have left their mark at the Galaxy.

3

Future Prospects for Casemiro

While clubs in Saudi Arabia have shown interest in Casemiro, the Brazilian midfielder is focused on his current responsibilities at Manchester United. With his contract set to expire soon, the decision on his next destination remains uncertain. Will Casemiro opt for a new challenge in MLS with the Galaxy or seek a lucrative move elsewhere?

Published on Feb 4, 2026