Barcelona homegrown star already looking at new destinations; club wants €25 million | OneFootball

According to a report from MARCA, Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado has decided that the time has come to seek a new challenge away from Spotify Camp Nou. 

A season after breaking into the first team and becoming a useful option in midfield, the academy graduate has made peace with the fact that his path to regular football has become increasingly complicated.

Notably, the issue is not necessarily performance. Instead, it is competition.

Barcelona’s midfield is expected to look significantly different next season with both Gavi and Marc Bernal returning to full fitness. 

Combined with the other options already available to Hansi Flick, opportunities for Casado could become even more limited than they were during the previous campaign.

As a result, the report claims that discussions regarding a potential departure are already underway.

End of the road for Casado

Casado is ready to leave Barcelona. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

The outlet states that sporting director Deco has held talks with Jorge Mendes, the player’s representative, to explore possible solutions. 

On that note, Barcelona have placed a valuation of around €25 million on the midfielder, a figure that is lower than previous estimates discussed during earlier transfer windows.

Right now, Mendes is said to be evaluating two concrete possibilities for his client. 

One proposal comes from a European club, while another originates from Saudi Arabia. Both destinations are believed to be capable of meeting Barcelona’s financial demands.

A win-win situation

Viewed in isolation, Casado’s possible exit may seem surprising given his connection to La Masia and his progression into the senior squad. 

Barcelona want €25 million for Casado. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

However, within the context of Barcelona’s current squad planning, the move makes considerable sense.

Hansi Flick is seeking a more streamlined squad structure, with two players competing for each position. 

Right now, Barcelona have an overcrowded midfield department, making at least one departure almost inevitable.

Lastly, it is important to note that Barcelona want the operation completed before June 30, when the accounting period for the current financial year closes. 

A sale before that date would provide an immediate boost to the club’s books and help create greater flexibility ahead of the transfer window.