United and Casemiro Remove Contract Clause as Mainoo and Maguire Extensions Near Completion

Casemiro's exit from Manchester United this summer is now formally locked in, with the club and the 34-year-old having settled on the removal of a clause that could have complicated matters.

The Brazilian midfielder confirmed earlier this year that he would be leaving Old Trafford when his current deal expires at the end of the season. United had informed him in the autumn that they would not be renewing his contract, but Casemiro chose to make the news public in early 2026, a decision the club supported.

According to the Manchester Evening News, Casemiro and United reached an understanding in January to eliminate a clause from his contract. The original provision stipulated that a fresh agreement would have been triggered had he started 35 or more Premier League matches this campaign. With that clause now removed, the midfielder is free to feature in all of United's remaining fixtures without triggering any automatic extension.

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed there is zero possibility of a U-turn, despite Casemiro's strong performances this term. Any extension would have demanded a significant wage reduction that neither party was willing to entertain, with United already focused on identifying a long-term successor.

The news represents the final chapter in what has been a turbulent spell at the club for Casemiro, though he has nonetheless been among United's standout performers this season.

On the brighter side for United supporters, two key players are set to remain. Romano has disclosed that negotiations with Harry Maguire and Kobbie Mainoo are in the closing stages.

Maguire's new contract is nearly finalised, running until 2027 with an additional year option that would extend his stay to 2028. Mainoo's situation is similarly advanced, with a five-year deal until June 2031 on the table. The contract includes an improved salary package and a guaranteed key role for the academy graduate. The club views Mainoo's renewal as crucial to their long-term planning, and both sides are optimistic about reaching the finish line before the season ends.

Jadon Sancho, however, will not be staying. United have determined that Sancho's loan spell at Aston Villa will be followed by a summer exit as a free agent. The club will not activate the contract extension option due to its cost and Sancho's status outside their first-team plans.

Romano indicated that Borussia Dortmund remain keen on the winger, with the player still cherishing his connection to the German club and its supporters. Any return would require salary compromises. Interest from Serie A and Saudi Arabia also exists, meaning Sancho's next destination remains very much to be decided.