Barça's economic situation is still far from brilliant despite the countless efforts by Joan Laporta and Deco in recent months. Both are working tirelessly to bring the club back to financial stability, but the reality is that it still doesn't comply with the 1:1 rule.
That means that, without new sources of income, the board could be forced to make unpopular decisions. So during the next transfer window, this includes the possibility of letting go of a valuable homegrown player.
Uncertain futures in the Barça locker room
In this context, attention has turned to some of the club's key homegrown players like Fermín and Gavi. Their names appear constantly in the sports press. Both seemed destined to share a path at Camp Nou for many years, but the club's economic situation could force their departure.
Gavi and Fermín López grew up together at La Masia and share a close friendship. However, that relationship seems to have deteriorated. The tension has become noticeable in the locker room and, in addition, their performances have attracted the attention of clubs like Chelsea or PSG.
The real candidate to leave in January
However, according to information circulating in recent hours, neither Gavi nor Fermín would be sacrificed in the event of a sale. Unless there's a surprise, the decision would involve another figure. Marc Casadó is the name that stands out most as a possible departure, since his current role is secondary in Flick's plans.
He has players like Frenkie de Jong and the young Bernal ahead of him, which makes him the third option for the defensive midfielder position. Given this scenario, Barça would welcome a sale that wouldn't disrupt its sporting plans too much and would help ease its finances.
Simeone pays attention to the market opportunity
Atlético de Madrid has already shown strong interest in Marc Casadó. Simeone considers him an ideal profile to strengthen his midfield. There's even talk of a figure close to €40 million as a possible proposal to close the deal in January.
Barça will have to assess whether it's worth letting go of a homegrown talent to regain short-term financial stability. Deco and Laporta know it's not easy. The final decision will come in the winter transfer window, when Marc Casadó's future will be definitively clarified and Simeone could have him under his command.