Manchester United fans were left shocked on Wednesday night as Casemiro arrived at St James’ Park to face Newcastle sporting a highly visible and painful-looking battle scar. The experienced Brazilian midfielder was seen with a significant black eye and substantial swelling on his left cheek, leading to immediate and widespread questions from both supporters and the media regarding exactly how such an injury was sustained.

Manchester United moved up to third in the Premier League standings after securing their sixth win in seven games under Michael Carrick on Sunday, seeing off Crystal Palace 2-1 at Old Trafford. Although Benjamin Sesko and Bruno Fernandes deservedly dominated the headlines after respective goal-scoring turns, Casemiro's stellar work in the middle of the park was also essential to the victory, which has become a theme for the resurgent Red Devils since the turn of the year.

Manchester United are bracing for a ruthless summer engine room overhaul, with Manuel Ugarte reportedly set to follow Casemiro out of the club. After his high-profile arrival from Paris Saint-Germain just two years ago, the Uruguay international has struggled to adapt to the Premier League, and it has been reported he could be offered a lifeline in Serie A.

Manchester United are already plotting a major summer transfer spree as they prepare for life after one of their most decorated stars. The Red Devils are expected to invest over £170 million to replace Casemiro, who has announced he will not renew his contract after the upcoming World Cup, leaving a massive void in the heart of the Old Trafford midfield.

Casemiro is reportedly keen on joining AC Milan once his contract with Manchester United expires in the summer. The former Real Madrid star will leave the Red Devils at the end of the season and has been linked with a move to North America with Major League Soccer sides said to be interested in his services. However, those teams will face competition from Italian giants Milan, who are second in Serie A.