Barcelona name Marc Casado’s asking price as Saudi giants step up transfer chase | OneFootball

Barcelona’s summer transfer strategy is increasingly centred around striking a balance between strengthening Hansi Flick’s squad and improving the club’s financial position. 

While most of the attention has been on potential arrivals, one academy graduate could soon become one of the biggest outgoing stories of the window.

Marc Casado, who emerged as one of La Masia’s standout success stories over the past two seasons, is no longer viewed as an untouchable figure within Barcelona’s first-team project. 

Instead, the midfielder has become one of the club’s most valuable assets in the transfer market, with Saudi Arabian clubs now stepping up their efforts to secure his signature.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have placed a valuation of €30-40 million on the 22-year-old, believing his age, experience and homegrown status justify a significant transfer fee. 

The Catalan club are in no rush to lower their demands, convinced that Casado remains a player with considerable long-term value despite facing fierce competition for minutes.

Flick’s midfield leaves Casado with difficult decision

Marc Casado is likely to leave Barcelona. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

The biggest challenge for Casado is Barcelona’s depth in midfield.

Flick heads into the new season with an abundance of options in the centre of the pitch, leaving the academy graduate with an increasingly difficult route towards regular football. 

Internally, the coaching staff appreciates Casado’s tactical intelligence, work rate and versatility, but the competition around him has inevitably altered his outlook.

That shift has also influenced Barcelona’s transfer planning, and rather than actively pushing the midfielder towards the exit, the club see a summer departure as an opportunity to generate funds without weakening a position already packed with quality.

Agent exploring options as Saudi Arabia leads the race

Casado’s future is now being influenced away from the pitch as much as on it.

Teams in Saudi Arabia are interested in Casado. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

His representative, Jorge Mendes, has opened discussions with several clubs to identify the best sporting project available, while also considering the financial aspects of a potential move. 

Interest has arrived from multiple markets, but Saudi Arabia has emerged as the most determined destination.

Among the clubs showing concrete interest is Al-Hilal, who want to strengthen their squad once again. 

However, they are not alone, with other Saudi Pro League sides also monitoring Casado’s situation and attempting to negotiate more favourable terms with Barcelona.

For now, Barcelona remain firm on their valuation, as they feel Casado should command a premium fee rather than a discounted transfer.