Barcelona's transfer market shows no signs of slowing down. With Hansi Flick planning the new season, the club is working against the clock to balance its books and define the squad.
In the midst of this restructuring, an unexpected case has emerged: Marc Casadó. Bayer Leverkusen has put an offer on the table, but Joan Laporta is clear that if Casadó leaves, it'll be for much more.
An unexpected opportunity for Casadó… and for the club
Marc Casadó has gone in just a few months from being a revelation to finding himself in a delicate situation. Flick's arrival hasn't benefited him, and Marc Bernal's recovery threatens to take even more prominence away from him. Although his talent is not in question, the German coach prioritizes a different profile, and that has opened the door to a possible exit.
In this context, Barça sees Casadó as a possible strategic sale. Not because they don't trust him, but because there's an urgent need to generate income. The club is still dragging a complicated financial situation and, as Laporta has said more than once, every decision counts.
Bayer Leverkusen takes the first step
Germany hasn't taken long to react. Bayer Leverkusen, after cashing in on the sales of Wirtz and Frimpong, is looking for reinforcements with potential and quality. In Casadó they've seen just that: a young player, trained at La Masia and with experience at the top level.
The first offer was €30 million (€20 million guaranteed and €10 million in add-ons). This figure reflects the German club's real interest, but it was quickly rejected by Barcelona. Not out of disdain, but because the club's internal valuation of the player is much higher.
Laporta sets conditions: €50 million or no deal
Barça has a clear roadmap: sell, yes, but not at a loss. Joan Laporta has been blunt. If any club wants Casadó, they must put at least €50 million on the table and he doesn't seem willing to give in.
For the blaugrana president, this operation could be key. Not just for the money, but for the message to the market: Barça values its young players and won't let them go cheaply. In addition, Deco also supports this stance.
A long summer with tough decisions
Frenkie de Jong, Fermín, Araújo… and now Casadó. Barça is at a moment when anything can happen. There's pressure to reduce the wage bill, to strengthen the squad, and to meet Flick's demands.
Marc Casadó wasn't a candidate to leave a month ago. But the market rules. If Bayer comes back with a better offer, those at Camp Nou will be obliged to listen.
The summer has just begun, but the moves already suggest it's going to be intense. Casadó could be the first of several unexpected chapters.