Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has all but confirmed Casemiro’s move to Manchester United.
The Brazilian star, 30, spent nine years at the Bernabeu and won 18 major trophies, including five Champions League titles.
talkSPORT understands the Red Devils have agreed a five-year deal with Casemiro and a £60m fee from Los Blancos.
The midfielder is set to undergo a medical in Manchester this week and Ancelotti has confirmed Casemiro’s departure.
“Casemiro wants to try a new challenge, and me and the club understand that,” the Madrid boss said.
“After everything he has done for this club, we have to respect his decision.
“Casemiro leaves but we have a lot of resources to replace him.
“There is no turning back, Casemiro has decided to try a new challenge. We want to wish him the best.
“Just yesterday I realized Casemiro was leaving, but our plans don’t change – we will compete for everything with or without Casemiro.
“I think Casemiro was a key player for us, he was important for Kroos and Modric – the combination was the key to success.
“Casemiro’s teammates understand his decision, they respect it – it was his willingness to try a new challenge and we have to accept that.
“Casemiro will not play on Saturday [against Celta Vigo]. We signed Tchouameni and he is one of the best on the market. Then we have Kroos and Camavinga.
Casemiro was pictured in Madrid training on Friday – but it appears the midfielder was only involved for 15 minutes before bidding farewell.
Many have questioned the Brazilian’s decision to swap the European champions for a struggling club without Champions League football.
Some reports suggest United have doubled Casemiro’s wages – and when asked about the decision, Ancelotti gave no advice but appeared to confirm United were the midfielder’s destination.
Ancelotti added: “I can’t answer why Casemiro swapped the European champions for a struggling side, it’s his personal decision.”
Offer of the day
New Customers: Bet365 – Bet €10 Get €50 Free Bets* – CLAIM HERE
All Customers: Betway: £30 Free Bet Match if your first Acca loses* – CLAIM HERE
Bet365: account opening offer. Bet €10 and get €50 free bets for new customers at bet365. Minimum deposit requirement. Free bets are paid out as bet credits and can be used when settling qualifying bets. Minimum odds, betting and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude wagering bet credits. Deadlines and terms and conditions apply 18+ Begambleaware.org
Betway: New UK customers only. Minimum deposit: £5. Maximum free bet: £30. First bet on a football or horse racing multiple with more than 3 selections. Overall rating: 3.00 (2/1) or better. Free bets available upon settlement of the qualifying bet. Debit card deposits only. Restrictions on deposit methods apply. This offer is valid for 7 days from the registration of your new account. 18+. BeGambleAware.org. Bet responsibly. Full terms apply.
SEE ALL FREE BET OFFERS FOR NEW AND EXISTING CUSTOMERS HERE