Casemiro granted work permit with £70m midfielder set for Man Utd debut against Southampton after missing Liverpool win

CASEMIRO has been granted a work permit and is set to make his Manchester United debut against Southampton, according to reports.

The Brazil star, 30, joined the Red Devils in a £70million transfer worth an eye-watering £350,000-a-week.

He flew into the country over the weekend to complete a medical and was presented to the Old Trafford crowd on Monday when United took on and beat rivals Liverpool.

And according to the Manchester Evening News, instead of watching United play from the stands, Casemiro will be able to PLAY for United this weekend against Southampton.

The five-time Champions League winner has been granted his work permit, making him available for selection.

On his move to Old Trafford, Casemiro said: “The opportunity to start a new challenge at Manchester United and in the Premier League is extremely exciting.

“I have worked with many great managers in my career and, having met with Erik and heard his ideas, I can’t wait to work closely with him, his staff and my new team-mates in the coming years.

“I’m ending one beautiful journey in Madrid whilst starting another in Manchester as determined as ever to win football matches, win trophies and make our fans proud by bringing success to this great club.

“Everybody knows the history of Manchester United, the significance of the club around the world and what it means to its supporters.

“To represent United is an honour and I am ready to give everything to help the team achieve our ambitions.”

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New Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag has described Casemiro as “the cement between the stones”, and says the club had been searching far and wide for a player of his expertise.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the Dutchman said: “He is the cement between the stones, that is what we have been looking for in the summer and found him.

“[I’m] very happy with his signing.”