"He will give us success" - Erik ten Hag tips key player to stay at Manchester United amid exit talk

The 32-year-old has another two years left to run on his contract with the Red Devils, while there is an option to extend his agreement until the summer of 2027.

Casemiro has again been an important player for Man United this season despite some injury problems, featuring on 25 occasions in all competitions, scoring five goals and registering three assists.

There has been talk of a potential summer departure, with clubs from Saudi Arabia said to be keeping a close eye on his situation in Manchester.

However, Ten Hag, who is also facing an uncertain future at Old Trafford, has hinted that the Brazil captain will be staying at the club for the foreseeable future.

Erik ten Hag hints at Casemiro stay this summer

"I think we needed a six [defensive midfielder] when I arrived here and, last season, Casemiro was fantastic. I don't think he ever scored so many goals as well," Ten Hag told reporters on Friday.

"But as a six, as a holding midfielder, as a strategist, he was so important for the team. This season, he struggled with some bad injuries, he never had this in his career. But I know he is such a winner.

"See his career, all his career he always won. Everywhere where he was, there will be success. And I trust he will give us also the success, and I know he needs games and he will be better.

"I'm very confident about him, he's a fighter, that's why he won the big trophies. He's a personality, and he's a very important player for us and, as I say, he will give us success."

Ten Hag also addressed Christian Eriksen's lack of action this season, with the Denmark international struggling for starts since Kobbie Mainoo broke into the first team, and the 32-year-old is widely expected to seek pastures new during the upcoming transfer window.

Erik ten Hag addresses Christian Eriksen's lack of action

"I think that [Kobbie Mainoo's progress] is the main reason. He [Kobbie] was so important for us, he is playing in that six/eight role, [to] bring creation to the team, bring composure, in our possession game, to the team," the Man United boss said when questioned on Eriksen's struggles for football.

"I think that is the main reason why Christian has less minutes than last season."

Eriksen has made 21 appearances this season, scoring once and providing two assists, but he has only been used on 16 occasions in the Premier League.

The Dane has only started nine times in England's top flight this term, and he is set to move on at the end of the campaign, 12 months before the end of his contract.

Man United are expected to bring in at least one central midfielder this summer, while two defenders and a centre-forward will also be targeted by the 20-time English champions.