As the transfer window nears its close, Olympique de Marseille is preparing a €30 million bid for a promising Barcelona midfielder.
The Ligue 1 giants, led by president Pablo Longoria and director Medhi Benatia, are keen to strengthen their squad, and the 21-year-old La Masia graduate has emerged as a prime target to bolster their midfield ranks.
The player at the center of this potential transfer is Marc Casado, a talented defensive midfielder who shone for Barcelona last season, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
Casado’s ability to anchor the midfield with composure and tactical awareness has drawn attention from multiple clubs across Europe.
However, his playing time dwindled in the second half of the season following Frenkie de Jong’s return to the starting lineup, fueling speculation about a possible move.
Barcelona’s ongoing Financial Fair Play constraints could make Casado’s departure an appealing option to alleviate financial pressure, despite his evident potential.
Marseille’s interest in Casado comes as they seek a replacement for Adrien Rabiot, who was recently placed on the transfer list after a reported dressing-room clash with teammate Jonathan Rowe.
With a €30 million valuation, Casado is viewed as an ideal candidate to fill the void in Marseille’s midfield, bringing both youth and proven quality.
However, persuading the young Spaniard to leave his boyhood club poses a significant challenge, as Casado has expressed no desire to exit Barcelona.
Barcelona has made it clear they will not push Casado out, leaving the final decision in the hands of the player.
Meanwhile, other clubs, including Premier League sides West Ham United and Wolverhampton Wanderers, as well as La Liga’s Real Betis, are also monitoring the situation.
Betis sees Casado as a potential replacement for Johnny Cardoso, but any deal would need to meet Barcelona’s €30 million asking price.
As the transfer window deadline looms, all eyes will be on Casado’s decision regarding his future.
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