Barcelona identify academy midfielder as Marc Casado backup plan | OneFootball

After having completed several signings, FC Barcelona are now looking to complete some departure operations to lighten their squad and obtain funds that they can now fully use to sign even more players, having recently returned to the 1:1 status.

One player they had marked for a sale was the midfielder Marc Casado. The Spaniard remained an important player for Hansi Flick during the German coach’s first season at the Blaugrana club, but lost importance last season with the returns of Gavi and Marc Bernal. Things were not expected to improve next season for him either, as Flick was set to have seven players for three midfield spots.

However, there has been a recent development that can significantly affect the Catalans’ plans. Frenkie de Jong played in the World Cup with some problems, and there is a possibility of him having developed a serious injury, which is yet to be confirmed. If the worst-case scenario actualizes, Barcelona would not want any departures from their midfield.

In such a context, Mundo Deportivo reports that the Blaugranes are counting on Casado to fill the possible gap that would be created with the injury to the Dutchman. However, if the Spaniard still ends up leaving, the youngster Tommy Marques would be trusted to play this role.

Casado has been linked with several clubs, both from Europe and Saudi Arabia, but, so far, there has not been an offer that satisfied both Barcelona and the player. Thus, it remains to be seen how his future will pan out.

On the other hand, Marques has already made his debut for the first team, in the league game against Mallorca last February. Flick is very happy with the young midfielder, and is ready to give him greater responsibilities.

Ultimately, a decision on this subject will be made only after a proper assessment of Frenkie de Jong’s knee and after the future of Marc Casado attains more certainty, either with a departure or his continuity at Barcelona.