It’s a midfielder scramble this summer at Camp Nou, and it appears academy graduate Marc Casado will be on his way out of FC Barcelona. As the Blaugranes see their first-team central hub begin to fill with stars, it appears the 22-year-old midfielder privately accepts his immediate development is stagnating in Catalonia.
Jorge Mendes, the super-agent has begun the task already. According to reports, he officially proposed the versatile midfielder to AC Milan who are restructuring their midfield options under new ownership and a new sporting project.
Five-way race for La Masia product
While Milan has an open channel through Mendes to broach the subject with Barca, they are by no means the only ones in the running for Barcelona’s 22-year-old. Casado’s press resistance and tactical intelligence has put heavy hitters around the continent on high alert.
- Premier league interest: Manchester United are monitoring proceedings closely, having recently searched for a midfield engine room that has dynamism and can add young legs to their rotations deeper in the pitch.
- Ligue 1 Interest: Monaco have displayed tangible interest and are making concerted efforts to convince the youngster with the offer of a project where he will receive assured minutes.
- Domestic & International suitors: Atletico Madrid are watching developments in Spain keenly while Saudi giants Al-Hilal are hovering as a lucrative Plan B, should a European resolution fail to materialise.
Financial picture & july resolution
Barcelona are looking for a permanent transfer fee in the range of 20-30M as the Catalan giants continue to deal with financial limitations and strict wage restrictions under league rules. While an immediate, permanent sale would be preferred, initial conversations with some clubs such as Milan has introduced loan deals with the option to buy into the discussion.
The choice, ultimately, is solely with the player right now. Casado is currently on holiday, choosing to distance himself from the media circus and weigh up which sporting project represents the best option for him at this stage of his career.
Pre-season check
If no formal agreement can be reached in the coming weeks, Casado is due to report back for duty for Barcelona's pre-season training session on 13 July.
This has all the ingredients of a typical summer transfer saga, and ultimately, we expect all parties to want some kind of resolution quickly. For Casado it’s about finding a head coach he trusts enough to give him the reigns. For Barcelona, it’s about cashing in to balance the books.
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