Galatasaray set their sights on signing out-of-favour Barcelona midfielder | OneFootball

A recent update from SPORT has revealed that Galatasaray have identified Marc Casado as a potential transfer target. 

The Turkish giants are closely monitoring the situation of the Barcelona midfielder, whose role in the first team has changed significantly over the past months.

It must be noted that Casado remains tied to Barcelona until 2028 and has a release clause set at €100 million. 

Despite that long-term deal, the club could be open to studying offers, particularly as the midfielder is no longer considered a key figure under Hansi Flick in the way he was last season.

Only a squad player

Casado has featured in just one of Barcelona’s last five matches, starting in the Copa del Rey clash against Racing Santander. Apart from that appearance, his minutes have been limited.

This is because competition in the Barcelona midfield has intensified, as Marc Bernal appears to have moved ahead of Casado in Flick’s plans. 

That shift was evident recently against Slavia Praha, where Bernal came on to play as the holding midfielder while Casado remained on the bench throughout the match. 

Casado is wanted in Turkey. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

The situation is further complicated by contract stability around him, as young prospect Tommy Marques is impressing in training in the same position as him.

There is interest

Despite the growing uncertainty, Barcelona are not in a position to weaken their squad in January. 

Injuries to Pedri and Gavi have reduced midfield depth, meaning options are available but not excessive. 

Any decision regarding Casado’s future is therefore expected to be postponed until the summer.

Lastly, interest has not been limited to Turkey, as Atletico Madrid have also been linked in recent hours, following Conor Gallagher’s departure to Tottenham Hotspur. 

However, Barcelona have no intention of letting a homegrown player leave mid-season unless an extraordinary offer arrives, something that is currently not expected.