Bayer Leverkusen has made a €30 million bid to sign a Barcelona star, as the club faces a pivotal decision amid financial pressures.
FC Barcelona’s pre-season preparations are in full swing, but transfer speculation is intensifying as the club navigates La Liga’s Financial Fair Play constraints.
A prominent Bundesliga club has made a bold move to secure one of Barcelona’s rising talents, offering a significant sum to bolster their midfield ahead of the 2025/26 season.
The proposal comes at a time when Barcelona is balancing squad depth with financial pressures, potentially forcing tough decisions about their homegrown stars.
While the offer is tempting, the club’s valuation of the player and manager Hansi Flick’s vision for the squad could complicate negotiations, with other European giants also circling.
The player in question is 21-year-old midfielder Marc Casado, who has caught the attention of Bayer Leverkusen with a €30 million offer, comprising €20 million fixed and €10 million in add-ons, according to Fichajes.
Casado, a La Masia product, enjoyed a breakout 2024/25 season under Flick, stepping up during injuries to Frenkie de Jong and Marc Bernal.
However, his playing time dwindled later in the season due to increased competition and minor injuries, prompting interest from Leverkusen, who see him as a long-term replacement for Granit Xhaka.
Barcelona, however, values Casado at €50 million, signaling their reluctance to let the versatile midfielder go cheaply.
Leverkusen’s interest is driven by their need to refresh their midfield, especially with Xhaka rumored to be considering a move to Saudi Arabia.
The German club has also contacted Casado’s representatives, offering regular playing time in the Bundesliga and Champions League.
Barcelona’s stance remains firm, with Flick yet to finalize Casado’s role amid Bernal’s return and a crowded midfield.
Interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, and Napoli adds further complexity.
As Barcelona weighs its financial needs against retaining homegrown talent, Casado’s future hangs in the balance, with the club’s high valuation potentially deterring Leverkusen unless they meet the €50 million demand.
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