£60m CASEMIRO MOVE CLOSE TO COMPLETION

MANCHESTER UNITED are optimistic of reaching an agreement over a deal worth more than £60million for Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro after a breakthrough in talks.

The clubs are finalising a fee — and bonus payments — for the 30-year-old Brazil international after he was told by Madrid president Florentino Perez that he could choose whether to stay or go. Casemiro (left) told manager Carlo Ancelotti of his decision to join United when the two met for talks yesterday evening. Ancelotti values Casemiro highly and is disappointed to see him leave as he has been instrumental to Madrid’s tactical set-up in recent years and has won 18 trophies during his nine seasons in the Spanish capital. However, Casemiro is excited by the prospect of a new challenge in the Premier League and helping to revive United’s flagging fortunes — while the lucrative figures on offer make economic sense for both Real and the player. Casemiro has three years left on his current contract with Madrid, but following the signing of Aurelien Tchouameni from Monaco his place is under threat. A United delegation travelled to Spain this week and hope to have the deal completed by Monday.

Once the transfer is completed, United will focus on adding a forward, right back and back-up goalkeeper to their ranks. They retain an interest in a loan deal for Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic, but have not held further talks at this stage. Everton goalkeeper Asmir Begovic is the latest option to be discussed as cover for firstchoice David de Gea. Southampton are hoping to sign United midfielder James Garner while defender Eric Bailly looks likely to join Marseille on loan.