Manchester United has reached an agreement with Real Madrid for the transfer of Brazilian Casemiro. The midfielder will sign a 4-year contract with the "Red Devils", with the option to renew and 1 additional year. The move will cost Manchester United £70 million.
Since 2013, Casemiro has been part of the Spanish giants, winning La Liga 3 times and the Champions League 5 times. The player's card will cost United dearly, as Casemiro will receive a weekly salary of £350,000, an incredible figure and almost double what the Brazilian earns at Real Madrid.
But why did Ten Hag choose Casemiro?
The Real Madrid veteran has always preferred to defend the ball close to his own area, and this type of positioning could prove invaluable to United, who have consistently shown insecurities at the back. Despite his not so good ability to dribble or launch quick counter-attacks, Casemiro's defensive intelligence has been what has given the right balance to Real Madrid's midfield. But how well will the Brazilian adapt to the current game model at the "Red Devils"?
If the coach Ten Hague stays true to the high-pressing game model, Casemiro's "clumsiness" can be exposed. Speed is not the strong point of the midfielder and this can turn into a problem, especially against teams like Arsenal or Manchester City, who know how to make good use of the small spaces left behind.
But on the other hand, the Brazilian has shown quite good skills when activated in a more offensive position. Last season, Casemiro managed to score 7 goals, hinting that he can contribute in the same way to Manchester United. However, it remains to be seen what Erik ten Hag's plan is for him.
