Barcelona could be caught off guard after Bayer Leverkusen moved closer to a shock deal for one of their important midfielders.
FC Barcelona’s technical office is managing a frantic final stretch in the summer transfer window, working to resolve several player exits before the registration deadline.
Under head coach Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco, the Catalan club has actively sought solutions for academy graduates who have seen their first-team minutes dwindle following summer squad additions.
The 22-year-old La Masia graduate aiming to seal his departure from Spotify Camp Nou is central midfielder Marc Casadó.
According to Fichajes, Casadó has turned down proposals from Real Betis in favor of prioritizing a move to the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen.
A primary catalyst behind the player’s preference is the presence of Leverkusen manager Carles Martínez, who previously coached Casadó during his formative developmental years in Barcelona’s youth academy.
The opportunity to reunite with his former youth mentor in Germany has positioned the BayArena as Casadó’s preferred destination.
While Real Betis explored an initial loan formula due to financial constraints and wage cap limitations, Barcelona have remained firm on establishing a permanent valuation of approximately €30 million for the midfielder.
Betis’ inability to meet those financial requirements effectively opened the door for Bayer Leverkusen to take control of negotiations.
Although Robert Andrich’s decision to remain at Leverkusen has created tactical complications regarding immediate squad space, Casadó’s representatives continue to push for a resolution before the window officially shuts.
Having fallen out of Flick’s primary rotation following midfield reinforcements, Casadó is determined to secure consistent playing time in a top European league.
Though interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia remains present, the Spaniard has prioritised staying within elite European competition.
With negotiations reaching a critical stage on deadline day, all eyes remain on whether Barcelona and Bayer Leverkusen can bridge the remaining financial details to finalize the transfer.
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