Barcelona keeps working to define its squad for the upcoming season.Laporta and Deco are clear that it will be necessary to finalize some departures to make room for the signings Hansi Flick has requested, especially in key positions such as wingers and full-backs. In this context, some European clubs have already shown interest in several blaugrana footballers who don't have a guaranteed leading role.
One of the teams that is most active in the market is Bayer Leverkusen. After Xabi Alonso's departure and the sale of several key players,the German club's board wants to strengthen its squad with young, promising talent. For this reason, they've set their sights on a Barça player who could be looking for more minutes away from Camp Nou.
In Bayer Leverkusen's orbit
The footballer attracting Bayer Leverkusen's interest is Marc Casadó. The midfielder started last season at a very high level, earning praise for his physical display and quality in building up play. However, he lost prominence after Frenkie de Jong's return, and his current situation in the team doesn't guarantee the continuity he wants to keep growing and secure his place.
Leverkusen's sporting management believes Casadó could fit perfectly into its project and would offer him a more important role than he currently has at Barça. His youth and versatility make him an attractive option for Ten Hag, who is looking to rebuild the midfield after several key departures from the German team.
Laporta sets the price
Despite the interest, Barça don't consider letting Casadó go at any price. Joan Laporta has made it clear that his departure will only be considered if an offer exceeding €50 million arrives (over €50 million). At Camp Nou, they consider the midfielder a long-term strategic piece, and only a transfer that significantly helps balance the financial accounts would justify his farewell.
For now, Bayer Leverkusen has put a proposal of €20 million guaranteed plus another €10 million in add-ons on the table (about €20 million guaranteed plus €10 million in add-ons). This amount is well below Barça's expectations. If the German side doesn't improve its offer, the deal seems complicated.