Atlético de Madrid has set a new target in the transfer market. The rojiblanco team wants to strengthen its midfield with a young player, with a competitive character and who knows LaLiga. Marc Casado fits that profile perfectly, one of the jewels from FC Barcelona's youth academy.
Casado, captain of Barça Atlètic, has been waiting for a real opportunity with the first team for some time. Although he has made his debut in official matches, his role has been limited and he isn't part of Hansi Flick's immediate plans. With Gavi, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, Fermín López, Marc Bernal, and now also Dani Olmo in the squad, the Catalan finds it increasingly difficult to carve out a place for himself.
Given this situation, the footballer is starting to seriously consider leaving Camp Nou. Atlético de Madrid has already made a move to convince him. According to some sources close to the rojiblanco club, the colchonero entity is willing to offer €30 million to close Marc Casado's signing this summer.
Simeone goes for Casado
The move is directly backed by Diego Simeone, who sees Casado as an ideal fit for his system. Versatile, aggressive in pressing, tactically disciplined, and with good ball distribution, the player from Sant Pere de Vilamajor has the DNA the Argentine coach is looking for in his midfield.
Simeone believes the team needs to renew its midfield and inject energy. Although players like Koke or De Paul remain important, Atlético needs fresh legs and young talent to compete on all fronts. Casado, 21 years old, fits that profile perfectly.
Casado doesn't see it as a bad move
Meanwhile, Barça could accept the deal for a strategic reason, the club needs to generate income and free up roster spots due to Financial Fair Play issues. Laporta and Deco have already received the rojiblanco proposal and are seriously considering having to accept it. If the player insists on leaving in search of playing time, Casado's camp is receptive to the idea.
They view Atlético's interest positively and understand it could be a great opportunity to establish himself at the top level. Despite being a culé since childhood, the footballer prioritizes his professional career and wants to play regularly. If the deal with Atlético is finalized, Barça would lose a homegrown talent, but would avoid letting him leave for free or without capitalizing on his market value.
Moreover, the reserve team already has Marc Bernal as a natural replacement, so the deal could benefit both parties. Marc Casado's future seems set for a change of scenery, and the destination could be the Metropolitano, where Diego Simeone is waiting for him with open arms. A move that could shake up the domestic market and would show, once again, that Atlético is very serious this season.