Atletico Madrid nears €30m blockbuster deal for Barcelona star as fierce city rivals close in on shock January raid of Camp Nou talent.
The Spanish capital club has identified a technically gifted homegrown talent as its ideal contingency plan, with negotiations potentially accelerating if primary targets prove unattainable.
Barcelona’s crowded engine room has created an opportunity for the 22-year-old to seek regular minutes elsewhere.
That midfielder is Marc Casado, who turned down Premier League interest last summer to fight for his place under Hansi Flick but now finds himself down the pecking order behind Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, Marc Bernal, and even Eric Garcia.
With fewer than 1,000 minutes played this season across 19 appearances, Casado’s frustration grows despite his 60 competitive outings and breakout campaign last term that earned a Spain debut.
Atletico Madrid views his ball circulation, tactical discipline, and versatility as perfect for their high-intensity system.
Marca reports position Casado as Atletico’s ‘Plan B’ should talks for Wolverhampton’s Joao Gomes stall, with Barcelona open to a summer exit that could fetch €25-30 million to bolster their transfer kitty.
The La Liga champions won’t block a move if Casado pushes for regular football, especially ahead of Spain’s World Cup cycle, where consistent starts could cement his international future.
Casado’s decision to stay last August showed loyalty, but limited opportunities have shifted his mindset toward a change of scenery.
For Barcelona, cashing in represents financial pragmatism without losing a core asset, freeing funds for summer priorities like a top striker.
Atletico Madrid, meanwhile, gains a ready-made La Liga performer familiar with pressure environments.
Casado’s smooth passing and work rate align seamlessly with Simeone’s demands, potentially making him an instant starter in the capital.
As the winter window nears its end, all signs point toward concrete discussions, with Barcelona prepared to facilitate a deal that benefits all parties in the season’s decisive phase.
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