PSG Reportedly Set to Make 'Stratospheric Offer' for Real Madrid Star Casemiro

Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly set to make a "stratospheric offer" for Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro this summer amid possible interest from Manchester United.

According to AS (h/t Sport Witness), the Parisian outfit are not prepared to meet the Brazil international's €200 million buyout clause but are nevertheless readying a sizeable bid for his services.

Their interest is said to come after United tried to lure him away from the Santiago Bernabeu a "few months ago," and the Red Devils could return for him this summer as they seek midfield reinforcements.

A defensive midfielder should be among PSG's priorities this summer. Thiago Motta turns 36 in August, and while Les Parisiens' flaws typically matter little on the domestic front because they're so dominant, they lack protection in big UEFA Champions League clashes and it proves costly, as it did against Real this season.

Power Sport Images/Getty Images

That's where Casemiro could come in. He provides a shield in front of Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane and allows Luka Modric and Toni Kroos to focus on controlling the game from the middle and creating opportunities for Real's attacking stars.

According to Squawka, the 26-year-old has won 64 tackles and 46 headed duels in 25 La Liga appearances this season, as well as making 51 interceptions. At the same time, he has created 23 chances and maintained a passing accuracy of 87 per cent.

He has also chipped in with seven goals and three assists in all competitions, which is an unexpected but healthy bonus from a player in his position.

Casemiro has come in for criticism of late, though, with Managing Madrid's Kiyan Sobhani and broadcaster Deji Faremi singling him out:

The Brazilian is hardly flawless, and he's not of the same calibre as many of his team-mates at the Bernabeu.

However, he has been a key fixture in the team throughout Zinedine Zidane's reign for a reason, and he could contribute much in Paris or Manchester.

There's little incentive for him to leave or Real to part with him, though much would depend on the size of the offer PSG are said to be preparing.