Barcelona academy gem poised to replace €30 million-rated star in first-team squad | OneFootball

FC Barcelona’s midfield plans for the new season could be shaped by two key developments: the uncertain future of Marc Casado and the injury concern surrounding Frenkie de Jong.

Casado has been heavily linked with a departure this summer, having fallen down the pecking order under Hansi Flick and struggled for regular minutes last season.

The La Masia graduate continues to attract interest from abroad, particularly from Saudi Arabia, with the Blaugrana seeking offers of around €30 million for him.

Tommy Marques the replacement

Now, according to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have already identified a clear internal alternative should Casado depart. That player is Tommy Marques, one of La Masia’s most highly regarded prospects.

Flick has been impressed by Tommy throughout his time training with the senior squad.

Flick trusts Tommy Marques. (Photo courtesy: X/FCBarcelona_es)

The midfielder, who turns 20 later this year, enjoyed his first taste of senior football last season after earning the coaching staff’s trust through consistent performances in training.

He made his first-team debut on February 7 against Mallorca, replacing Fermin Lopez during Barcelona’s 3-0 victory at Spotify Camp Nou.

Later in the campaign, after the league title had already been secured, he made a second appearance as a late substitute for Marc Bernal against Alaves.

Although both cameos were brief, they reflected the club’s confidence in his development.

De Jong injury could change things

However, the potential long-term absence of Frenkie de Jong may force Barcelona to reassess their plans.

Casado has been considered one of the players most likely to leave since the end of last season, but no club has yet met Barcelona’s asking price of €30 million.

Casado’s exit depends on De Jong’s injury. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

His future now depends, at least in part, on the final diagnosis of De Jong’s knee injury and the duration of his absence. In case of a long-term concern, the Catalans could end up pulling the plug on Casado’s exit.

Trust in La Masia

However, if Casado does leave, Barcelona are prepared to promote from within rather than enter the transfer market.

The Blaugrana have already decided that, if another defensive midfielder is needed, the solution will come from within the academy. They have no intention of signing an external replacement for the position.

Tommy is currently the leading candidate, although other academy players, including Brian Farinas, are also expected to be evaluated during pre-season.

The coming weeks will determine how Barcelona’s midfield takes shape for the new campaign. Much will depend on De Jong’s injury and whether Casado ultimately remains at the club or accepts one of the offers expected to arrive.