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Frenkie de Jong and Marc Bernal are to blame: for €50M he's going to Arsenal

Barça must make a difficult decision due to the excess of talent in midfield ahead of the new season

Barça's midfield is more than complete for next season. There is quality, young talent, and many different profiles. However, with so many options, tough decisions are inevitable.

Dani Olmo and Fermín are competing for the attacking midfield spot in Flick's system. Pedri and Gavi share the creative area with different nuances. For the holding midfielder position, there are three well-defined names.

The problem is that only one can play and none of them want to be left without minutes. Frenkie de Jong, Marc Bernal, and another player occupy that role. The sporting management has already detected a clear surplus.

Arsenal interested in an unexpected Barça departure for 50 million euros

For weeks, there has been talk about a possible sale of Fermín. Barça is asking for 60 million euros for him in case of an immediate departure. However, Flick has made it clear that he doesn't intend to let him go.

De Jong returned to his best form in the final weeks of the season | Getty Images

For the German coach, the number "16" is non-negotiable. He brings energy, attacking presence, and an attitude that Flick values highly. That's why another midfielder will have to leave the project.

With Frenkie's full recovery and Marc Bernal's return to training, the situation has become even more complicated. That has triggered rumors around another key figure.

Casadó on the way out: Arsenal have been closely following him for months

The name in question is Marc Casadó. He was one of the biggest surprises of last season. His performance, maturity, and consistency made him one of the best stories of the campaign.

Soccer players celebrating on the field with one of them kissing the badge on his jersey.
Casadó has shown that he has the level to play this season | Getty Images

If a sale is necessary, Casadó could be the least painful solution. He is young, has a good reputation in Europe, and could bring in a significant sum. Barça has set his price at 50 million euros.

That's where Arsenal comes in. The English club has been following him closely for some time. They are looking for a physical midfielder with good tactical awareness, and Casadó fits that profile perfectly.

Marc Bernal gains importance and Barça prepares for a delicate decision with Casadó

Marc Bernal's emergence has been key in this whole process. Flick trusts his ability to be useful from day one. He is strong, intelligent, and very versatile.

That has ultimately tipped the scales against Casadó. Although there is no formal offer, there is contact with Arsenal. If they come with a firm proposal, Barça will have to think very carefully.

Barcelona player with the club crest on a green background
Casadó is one of the best Barça prospects | Getty Images, Madrid-Barcelona

The midfield is well covered, but the finances remain tight. In such a delicate context, any extra income is welcome. Even if that means saying goodbye to one of the club's homegrown gems.

Flick backs Marc Bernal's continuity and approves Casadó's possible sale if there is a firm offer

Casadó has shown that he can perform at the highest level. However, he is not untouchable for the coaching staff. Flick is willing to move forward without him if the balance is kept.

Marc Bernal is growing by leaps and bounds and has a clear path to keep gaining prominence. Meanwhile, Frenkie remains a vital piece in the engine room.

So it all depends on Arsenal. If they reach 50 million euros, Barça will sit down to listen. Casadó, in that case, could fly to the Premier League.