Casemiro torn – Ronaldo urges him to skip Messi and join his project

Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly lobbying Casemiro to join him in Saudi Arabia instead of linking up with former rival Lionel Messi at Inter Miami once he departs Manchester United this summer.

The 34-year-old midfielder revealed in January that this would be his final season at Old Trafford after the club opted not to extend his four-year deal by another year, aiming to relieve the wage bill tied to his £375,000-a-week salary.

MLS side Inter Miami reportedly approached Casemiro about a potential move to the United States once his contract expires, offering the chance to play alongside Messi before the Argentine’s retirement. However, Spanish outlet Marca claims Ronaldo is making a strong push to persuade Casemiro to skip a reunion with Messi and instead become part of his project in Saudi Arabia.

Since his high-profile transfer to Al-Nassr in 2023, Ronaldo has yet to secure a league title in Saudi Arabia and sees Casemiro as a crucial addition capable of strengthening the squad.

Messi, who recently extended his Inter Miami contract until 2028, is also eager for Casemiro to join him in Florida, hoping the Brazilian can help fill the midfield gap left by Sergio Busquets’ retirement last year. Meanwhile, Casemiro is enjoying a standout season at United, scoring seven goals in 30 appearances, including 28 Premier League starts, arguably his most productive campaign at the club.

After Ronaldo, Casemiro to play with Messi?

Initially, Inter Miami had reservations about pursuing the Brazilian due to his wage demands and the existing high salaries on their roster, making a summer transfer potentially costly for the David Beckham co-owned franchise.