Casemiro may have one final assist to play for Manchester United as he heads for the exit this summer. The Brazilian midfielder could prove instrumental in the club's pursuit of his potential successor, Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes.
Reports indicate United have initiated talks with Newcastle over a £69million transfer for Guimaraes. The 28-year-old would represent an ideal successor to his Brazil team-mate, who confirmed in January his intention to leave Old Trafford at the end of the season.
However, competition from Real Madrid poses a threat to United's plans. Casemiro, who maintains a close relationship with Guimaraes, could be the deciding factor. The 34-year-old is held in high regard by the Newcastle captain, who described him as an inspiration in a November 2025 interview with Globo Esporte.
Guimaraes said: 'His background, his titles... he's a complete player. His career speaks for itself. In one of my first interviews with the national team, in 2020, when I arrived, they asked if I was inspired by anyone in midfield, and I said his name: Casemiro.'
The duo will feature together in Brazil's squad for the World Cup this summer. United supporters will be hoping Casemiro can steer Guimaraes' focus towards Manchester over Madrid while they are on international duty.
Casemiro's contract expires in June, and he has indicated he will leave. However, widespread speculation suggests United may activate a one-year extension clause given improvements under Michael Carrick. Regardless, Casemiro's bond with the club could see him leverage his influence to help secure Guimaraes' signature.
