Major League Soccer (MLS) is a potential next destination for Manchester United midfielder Casemiro when he becomes a free agent and leaves Old Trafford at the end of the season, it has been claimed.

United announced last month that Casemiro, 34, will leave the Reds this summer after four years at the club. Throughout his time in Manchester so far, the Brazilian has made 150 appearances, scoring 22 goals. While speculation increased that United might extend Casemiro’s contract given his improved performances over the past 12 months, the Reds have chosen not to activate the one-year extension clause within his existing agreement.

This means, though, that Casemiro is poised to become a free agent and there is considerable interest in the five-time Champions League winner. Indeed, according to The Telegraph, MLS sides are considering a swoop for Casemiro, who is reportedly attracted to the possibility of playing football in the United States.

Lionel Messi, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and David Beckham are amongst the prominent players who have relocated to the MLS in recent years, and Casemiro, who was recently holidaying in Miami, could follow suit.

Yet, despite the MLS interest, United interim head coach Michael Carrick believes Casemiro remains capable of competing at the elite level, which could pave the way for him to face the Reds in the Premier League or Europe next season.

Since taking the reins as United’s head coach, Carrick has been notably impressed by Casemiro, with the former Middlesbrough boss praising the veteran for elevating training standards and serving as a role model to his colleagues.

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“I’m sure he can, he’s playing at as high a level as he’s played at for some time at the moment, and it’s great to see in so many ways,” Carrick commented, when speaking about Casemiro still playing at the highest level.

“The experience, technical ability, game comprehension, just composure in certain moments, he’s in a really good place. I’ve got to say, Cas has been fantastic since I arrived, both on and off the pitch.

“Experience is a great thing if you utilise it correctly, and again, I think over time being a senior player here is almost the responsibility of setting an example, aiding the younger players, supporting the rest of the lads, and sharing your experiences in a positive manner. He’s been top-notch since I came, in so many ways, and he’s been a pleasure to work with.”

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Casemiro has featured in the starting line-up for each of Carrick’s first five matches since his return to the United dugout. The former Real Madrid star has netted once and provided one assist during that period, both in the 3-2 win against Fulham.

United are set to face Everton on Monday night, aiming to stretch their unbeaten streak to 10 matches in the Premier League. The Reds last experienced defeat in the top tier on Sunday, 21 December in a 2-1 loss at Aston Villa.

They currently occupy fifth place in the Premier League table, on par with fourth-place Chelsea and Liverpool in sixth. However, a vital victory at Everton would see the Reds establish a three-point lead over their Champions League adversaries.