While incomings have understandably taken centre stage thus far in Manchester United's January transfer window, the door remains ajar just yet for incomings. That's because while England's window slammed shut before the weekend, the Turkish one opened 12 days later, staying open until Tuesday evening as clubs in the country look to bolster their ranks for the second half of the campaign.
Manchester United have previous in doing business with Turkish clubs, most recently receiving Altay Bayindir from Fenerbahce and sending Fred the other way. Other former Old Trafford favourite's Juan Mata and Eric Bailly also departed to new pastures in Turkey upon their exits.
The Turkish market is still very active, and as such, rumors have started to surface on Casemiro's links with a move to the Super Lig. Besiktas, now managed by former United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, are reportedly interested in the Brazilian midfielder. With Casemiro never playing under Solskjaer at Old Trafford, the two coming together in Turkey would be a headline in waiting.
Casemiro's future at United appears uncertain. The 32-year-old has played just 19 minutes across two of United's opening nine matches in 2025, signaling a reduced role under current management. With his contract entering its final 18 months and no plans for renewal or triggering the additional year option, Casemiro's time at Old Trafford seems to be coming to an end.
Casemiro's Legacy at Manchester United
Casemiro joined Manchester United in 2022, just after his 30th birthday, on a four-year deal. The signing was hailed as a masterstroke at the time, with United desperately needing a world-class defensive midfielder to anchor their engine room. During his maiden season, Casemiro formed a formidable partnership with Christian Eriksen, playing a pivotal role in the club's success under Erik ten Hag.
His ability to break up play, dictate tempo and pop up with crucial goals made him an instant fan favorite. But anyone with a brain knew the Brazilian represented a short-term solution rather than a long-term investment. Fast forward, as Casemiro approaches his 33rd birthday later this month, United are looking to the future under head coach Ruben Amorim, with more youthful operators expected to move to the front.
Why a Move to Turkey Makes Sense
A transfer to Turkey would do some good for all parties concerned. For Casemiro, this is a new challenge and the chance to play regular first-team football at a competitive level. For Manchester United, it would free up significant wages and potentially generate a transfer fee, saving the club millions in the long run.
Under the guidance of Solskjaer, Besiktas aims to reinforce their squad in order to rise in the Super Lig table. This experience and leadership from Casemiro can help them a great deal in achieving success. Another reason is the style of play in the Turkish league, with its often high level of physicality and tactical discipline, fits Casemiro's strengths quite well.
The Financial Implications
Casemiro's current deal at United is one of the most lucrative in the squad. Offloading him would save the club millions in wages, money they could reinvest in younger, more dynamic players to fit into the long-term vision of Amorim. They would also get a transfer fee, at the very least moderate, thus giving additional financial flexibility as United attempts to rebuild and again be competitive at the top.
What's Next in Store for Manchester United?
With the looming deadline for transfer windows in Turkey, it seems all eyes shall be set whether Casemiro indeed will head that direction, a development likely to signal an end of the Brazilian at the Old Trafford Theater and begin yet another phase for both the star player and club.
That means United shift attention to finding and sealing replacements that will fill in the chasm left by Casemiro. Under Amorim, recruitment at United would most likely lean more on youth and athleticism and build a core of a team that can effectively compete for significant honors over coming seasons.
Conclusion
While Casemiro's Manchester United career has been short-lived, the impact he made was immense. The quality and solidarity brought in by him, in a midfield which needed the boost, were just what the doctor ordered. Now, as the club looks to the future, perhaps this move to Turkey is best for all involved.
Well, with the Turkish transfer window still open, there remains a possibility of one more piece of business. And if Casemiro does leave, then United would save themselves millions and provide a platform for the next generation of talent to shine at Old Trafford.
