Barcelona midfielder rejects offer from Turkey; multiple La Liga clubs show interest

Marc Casado is now carefully studying his options as he prepares to leave Barcelona this summer, with several clubs showing interest in the midfielder.

According to SPORT, Casado has decided to leave Barça after speaking with Hansi Flick at the end of the season.

The message was clear enough: with competition from Marc Bernal, Frenkie de Jong, Pedri and Gavi, his minutes next season could be even more limited.

That is a painful decision for a player developed at the club and deeply connected to Barça. Casado wants to succeed in Blaugrana colours, but at 22, he also knows that his development needs regular football.

Barcelona would like to receive around €20 million for him, preferably before 30 June, because as an academy player, the full fee would count as profit for the club.

La Liga interest grows

Casado on his way out. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

As per the report, Casado has already rejected an offer from Turkish football.

His preference is to continue in a top European competition, although he has not completely ruled out Al Hilal, especially with Jorge Mendes also in contact with the Saudi club over Joao Cancelo’s possible move to Barcelona.

The most interesting part from a sporting perspective is the interest from Spain.

Atletico Madrid are one destination that appeals to Casado, and Mateu Alemany is said to like the player as a potential fit for Diego Simeone’s system.

Real Betis have also shown interest as they look to strengthen Manuel Pellegrini’s squad for a Champions League season.

Real Sociedad, another club with European football, have also contacted Mendes to understand the midfielder’s situation.

If there is a silver lining for Casado in this situation, it is that he has his pick of the bunch when it comes to options for his next club.

Barça must balance money and respect

Barcelona want €20 million for Casado. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

For Barcelona, this is a classic difficult sale. Casado is useful, homegrown and tactically educated, but the club’s midfield is crowded and the financial benefit of a transfer is obvious.

A La Liga move could make sense for the player. Staying in Spain would allow him to continue developing in a familiar league, while Atletico, Betis and Real Sociedad would all offer competitive football and clear tactical demands.

The obstacle is the price. Barcelona want around €20 million, but that figure could be difficult for some Spanish clubs.

Barcelona fans will never forget the first season Casado had in the senior team. He looked excellent in the first few months under Hansi Flick.

He has given the first team 75 appearances across two seasons under Flick and deserves a proper next step.

If the next step comes in La Liga, it allows the Catalan club to track his development closely and first-hand.

The Blaugrana would also do themselves a favour if they could retain some control over the midfielder’s future, and it remains to be seen how things play out.