Arsenal is in the middle of an operation to strengthen its midfield. Mikel Arteta wants to secure that area before going after a goal-scoring striker. The most immediate target for the "gunners" is a quality midfielder, and that's where Marc Casadó, a young talent from FC Barcelona, comes into play.
A young player with potential at Barça
Marc Casadó, who's 21 years old, isn't on Barça's list of players to be released; on the contrary, he's a valued player. His contract runs until 2028, and the blaugrana board isn't ruling out extending it until 2030. The club trusts him, and Flick does too; the German coach sees Casadó as a very useful defensive pivot.
Casadó is an organized, disciplined, and confident player with the ball; he knows how to recover possession without resorting to violence. His style combines passing accuracy with a good reading of the game. Last season, he played 36 matches, with 1 goal and 6 assists, in addition to an important average of minutes played.
The competition that could complicate his future
The contract renewal of Frenkie De Jong and the return of Bernal could push Casadó into the background. Flick has several talents in midfield and must decide how to distribute minutes and prominence.
De Jong, whose contract runs until 2026, remains a pillar; Bernal, a revelation in preseason, is also developing. That's why there might not be as much room for Marc Casadó to shine. This opens the door to a possible departure.
Arsenal makes an attractive offer
Arsenal doesn't want to wait. It has put an offer of nearly €40 million on the table to sign Casadó. The "gunners" are looking to complement Martín Zubimendi, who's arriving from Real Sociedad to replace Thomas Partey.
Barça could take advantage of this offer to lighten its squad and strengthen the club's finances. Especially after recent investments in players like Nico Williams and Joan García.
Should Barça let Casadó leave?
This is a key question. Is it worth selling a promising young player? It depends on Casadó, who knows that in order to go to the World Cup, he must be a key player next season.
If he agrees to leave, Barça could receive a significant sum to keep strengthening its squad. If he decides to stay, he'll have to fight for a spot in an increasingly competitive midfield.