Barcelona Keep Door Open
Marc Casado can still leave Barcelona this summer, and talks with agent Jorge Mendes are set to continue in the days ahead. Approaches have already arrived from both Saudi Arabia and Europe, though no final decision has been made yet on his next destination.
Casado’s situation shifted dramatically once Gavi and Marc Bernal returned fully fit from injury. Suddenly, Hansi Flick’s midfield looked crowded, and the 22-year-old’s path to regular minutes narrowed considerably. Club and player quietly agreed weeks ago that a transfer represented the sensible way forward.
Since then, Mendes has been busy canvassing interest across multiple markets. Al Hilal emerged early as the most aggressive suitor, dangling a lucrative contract that would make the move financially compelling. Other Saudi Pro League clubs have joined the chase too, each hoping to negotiate more favourable terms with Barcelona directly.
European interest hasn’t disappeared, however. AC Milan received a formal offer from Mendes as they rebuild their midfield, while Atletico Madrid continue monitoring the situation closely. Manchester United and Monaco have also been credited with interest, though nothing concrete has emerged from either camp so far.
Barcelona, meanwhile, remain patient on price. Valuations floating around suggest a figure somewhere between €25m and €40m, reflecting Casado’s homegrown status and remaining sell-on potential. Given his development through La Masia, any fee in that range would represent significant profit for the club’s books.
Decision Now Rests With The Player
Ultimately, though, the choice belongs to Casado himself. He’s reportedly weighing financial security against sporting development, a genuine dilemma given the gulf between Saudi wages and European ambition. Sources suggest he still values proving himself competitively before considering a lucrative move eastward.
Barcelona had originally hoped to resolve this before preseason training began. That deadline has since passed, yet the club remains willing to wait for the right offer rather than rush a discounted sale.
For now, Mendes continues fielding calls from interested parties. Expect clarity soon, as Barcelona would prefer this resolved before their competitive fixtures resume.
Follow every twist in Barcelona’s squad rebuild on the KCPredict blog. Further background comes via Barca Universal.