Lionel Messi has sparked the fuse of an unexpected movement that could change key pieces on the European board. In his eagerness to prepare for the 2026 World Cup with every guarantee, he has made an urgent request to Inter Miami. He doesn't want to wait another minute to have by his side a player he considers essential.
The American club has replied enthusiastically and has started negotiations with the targeted footballer. The deal is moving faster than expected, and its execution could trigger a chain reaction. A reaction that, for FC Barcelona, doesn't bring good news.
From Camp Nou offices, they are watching the situation with growing unease, because the collateral victim would be a homegrown player. One of those discreet talents but with a bright future ahead. His name, for now, hasn't come to light... but the worst part is that they already have him on their radar.
Everything starts with a call from Leo Messi in Miami
Inter Miami is willing to make a significant financial effort to fulfill its star's wish. In the United States, the summer market offers room for maneuver and enough capital for major signings. In this case, the target is a player who currently plays for a European giant.
The affected team would thus see how it loses one of its most reliable midfielders. Its coach considers him untouchable, but the player has already been tempted by the American offer. Messi's presence on the other end of the phone has done the rest.
The deal isn't closed yet, but talks have progressed at record speed. Everything indicates that, if nothing goes wrong, the transfer will be completed before the end of the month. That will trigger an immediate search for a similar-profile replacement... right at Barça's home.
A move that directly affects Barça's transfer market
The European club that will lose its midfielder has already scouted options and has set its sights on a familiar academy. La Masia is back on the radar of the big clubs, and not by chance. Several reports indicate that there is an ideal profile to fill that immediate vacancy.
He is a player who has excelled in international competitions and who doesn't have a guaranteed spot with Flick. His versatility, tactical maturity, and competitive character make him a bargain for any top squad. The interested club is willing to put more than €40 million on the table.
Barça isn't entirely clear about its position, because it needs money... but it also wants to protect its young core. Losing such a figure would be a blow to the medium-term project. Inside the locker room, there are already voices warning: "If he leaves, part of our future leaves."
Simeone points directly at Barça: all because of Messi
The red-and-white club has moved quietly but with determination. Its coach has identified a single priority: urgently strengthen the midfield. On the list of options, there's only one name that meets all the physical, tactical, and emotional requirements.
He is a midfielder with Barça DNA, a protagonist in the youth categories and with experience in high-demand matches. A piece that Simeone considers ideal for his physical and vertical setup. He wouldn't have any problem offering him minutes and a leading role from day one.
Barça, for now, hasn't officially replied to the verbal offer received in recent hours. But in the offices, they already assume that the pressure will be unbearable if the player accepts the proposal. The sale could be closed in a range of €40 to €50 million... and it would be a painful farewell.
Yes, everything started with a call from Leo Messi to take Rodrigo De Paul to Miami. But the domino effect has ended with Atlético knocking on Barça's door. The name that's closest to leaving Camp Nou is none other than Marc Casadó.