Carlo Ancelotti conceded Casemiro wants to join Manchester United.

Casemiro has spent nine seasons with Real Madrid, winning five Champions League

Casemiro, 30, is expected to receive a substantial pay increase at United, who have been looking to strengthen their squad after losing the first two games of the Premier League season.

"I talked about it with [Casemiro] this morning," Ancelotti said in a news conference on Friday ahead of Madrid's LaLiga game at Celta Vigo. "He wants to try a new challenge, a new opportunity. The club and I understand it. Casemiro -- with what he's done at this club, and with the person he is -- we have to respect this desire he has.

"There are negotiations right now. Nothing is official, he's still a Real Madrid player, but he wants to leave. If he goes and reaches an agreement, we have the resources to replace him."