Manchester United have missed a key transfer deadline to sign Casemiro from Real Madrid – with the player not being available for selection against Liverpool on Monday night.
Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti confirmed on Friday that the Brazilian central midfielder was leaving the club this summer ahead of his move to Old Trafford. United representatives have held discussions with Madrid chiefs to conclude a deal as swiftly as possible.
United have made a deal for the Madrid star their prime focus after their move for Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot broke down over the Frenchman's wage structure while their summer-long pursuit of Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong has not reached a definitive conclusion.
The Brazil international will become the fourth incoming of the summer at Old Trafford. New boss Erik ten Hag has already secured the signings of defenders Tyrell Malacia and Lisandro Martinez from Feyenoord and Ajax respectively, alongside the acquisition of free agent Christian Eriksen – yet the addition of a star holding midfielder represents their most significant move.
However, Casemiro will not be signed in time to face Liverpool in Monday night's Premier League clash at Old Trafford. United desperately need a good result after their Premier League opening day defeat against Brighton prior to their humiliating four-goal loss at Brentford last time out – prompting United chiefs to step up their transfer attempts.
Any new signing for this weekend's round of Premier League matches would have needed to be registered with the league's authorities by midday on Friday. However, United had not concluded the deal by that stage and therefore could not lodge any registration with the league – meaning no new signings will be registered in that matchday panel.
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Casemiro won 18 trophies across a glittering career in the Spanish capital including three La Liga titles and five Champions League crowns.
United are hopeful that Casemiro will lead a late influx of arrivals at Old Trafford in the closing weeks of the transfer window. A £67million offer has been lodged for Ajax forward Antony, although this has been knocked back by the Dutch giants. PSV Eindhoven’s Cody Gakpo is an attacking alternative.
The club are also hopeful of signing a new goalkeeper to provide competition to the out-of-form David De Gea while they are also hopeful of adding a new right-back, although that is tied into the future of Aaron Wan-Bissaka – who may complete a return to Crystal Palace this summer.
