Getty Images
Chelsea have reportedly been handed an opportunity to revive their interest in Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado, with the Catalan giants increasingly open to listening to offers for the 22-year-old this summer.
Casado has found himself on the fringes of Hansi Flick’s plans after struggling for regular minutes last season. Despite making 34 appearances across all competitions, only 15 of those outings came as starts, leaving the midfielder facing an uncertain future at Camp Nou.
Barcelona’s decision to strengthen their midfield has only increased the uncertainty surrounding Casado. The arrival of Rodri from Manchester City is expected to make competition for places even tougher, with the Catalan club now keen to generate income from players who are unlikely to feature prominently.
Reports in Spain have suggested Barcelona could be looking for a fee in the region of €30-40 million for Casado, although the club may ultimately have to negotiate if there is limited interest at that valuation.
CHELSEA have previously been linked with the Spain international and could now revisit their interest if Barcelona are prepared to make the midfielder available. Chelsea’s extensive recruitment strategy has regularly focused on signing young players with significant potential, and Casado would fit that profile.
Opinion: Casado could represent a very sensible signing for Chelsea — but only if the price is right.
The midfielder’s biggest attraction is his age. At 22, he still has plenty of room to develop, while his experience at Barcelona means he has already been exposed to the demands of playing at the highest level.
Casado is particularly appealing as a midfielder capable of providing defensive discipline, energy and intensity. Chelsea already possess considerable technical quality in midfield, but adding a player who can provide greater balance and protection could be valuable over a long Premier League campaign.
However, CHELSEA should not get carried away simply because Barcelona are willing to sell. A fee approaching €40m would represent a significant investment in a player who has not yet established himself as a guaranteed starter at elite level.
If Barcelona’s asking price drops closer to €25-30m, though, Casado could become an attractive opportunity.
MORE BIG CHELSEA NEWS AND GOSSIP
Top Read: £65M valued star tells Alonso he wants to be Chelsea player amid big summer talk!
Most Read: Chelsea welcome brand new signing and officially wrap up summer switch!
Must Read: New signing EXCITED about Chelsea move – Alonso green light Chelsea do Spaniard deal – Blues star happy with summer signing