It was expected that Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado would leave the club before the end of June as he was not part of coach Hansi Flick's plans for the 2026/27 season. However, the 22-year-old La Masia graduate remains with the team, and his situation has changed considerably.
Previously, Barcelona was actively trying to sell Casado with a valuation around €20 million, considering that as a homegrown player his sale would represent pure profit. Nevertheless, after reassessing the market and given Frenkie de Jong's serious knee injury, the club's sporting department increased their asking price to €40 million and have already rejected offers below that sum.
De Jong's injury, which will sideline him for a long period, has significantly raised Casado's importance to the squad. He was previously behind Pedri, Gavi, and Marc Bernal in the defensive midfield pecking order, but now he occupies a more vital role in the first team.
Despite these changes, Casado still has chances to leave this summer, provided interested clubs meet Barcelona's valuation. Several Saudi Pro League clubs are reportedly interested in signing the 22-year-old midfielder.
This situation highlights Barcelona's firm stance on maintaining a high asking price to reflect Casado’s increased value to the squad and the market demand as the transfer window progresses.
