Barcelona stick with exit plan for La Masia graduate despite De Jong injury | OneFootball

According to MARCA, FC Barcelona have decided not to alter their transfer plans for Marc Casado despite Frenkie de Jong’s long-term knee injury, with the club remaining committed to finding the midfielder a new destination this summer.

De Jong’s setback, which could keep him sidelined until November, initially raised questions about whether Barça would postpone Casado’s departure to avoid weakening their midfield options.

However, the club’s sporting management continues to believe the squad has enough depth to cope with the Dutchman’s absence.

No change in strategy

Casado has been expected to leave for several weeks, with Barcelona open to a permanent transfer if a suitable offer arrives.

Interest has emerged from Saudi Arabia, where clubs have the financial resources to meet the Blaugrana’s €30 million valuation, while several European teams have also explored a move, a scenario that is understood to appeal more to the player himself.

Casado still expected to leave. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Although De Jong’s injury changes the midfield picture, Barcelona’s sporting department still believes this is the right moment to cash in on Casado rather than delay a transfer until the winter window.

Flick trusts his midfield options

Hansi Flick remains confident that he has enough alternatives in midfield within the current squad without having to retain Casado.

Pedri is expected to continue as an automatic starter in midfield, while Marc Bernal is viewed as the leading candidate to step into a more prominent role after impressing during the closing stages of last season.

Gavi is another option in deeper midfield, although Flick generally prefers using the Spain international in more advanced areas, where his pressing and attacking qualities can have greater impact.

Moreover, Barcelona also have two defenders capable of operating in midfield if required.

Eric Garcia can fill in as a midfielder. (Photo by Manuel Velasquez/Getty Images)

Eric Garcia regularly filled the holding midfield role last season and delivered several strong performances, demonstrating his tactical intelligence and composure in possession.

Andreas Christensen has also played as a defensive midfielder during his career, although injuries have limited his appearances in that position over the past two seasons.

Their versatility gives Flick additional solutions while De Jong continues his recovery.

Goodbye Casado?

Therefore, as things stand, Casado remains one of the players most likely to depart before the transfer window closes.

His agent, Jorge Mendes, has been working for several weeks to identify the most suitable destination, and Barcelona continue to believe a permanent sale represents the best outcome for both the club and the player.