Not long ago, Marc Casado looked destined to become one of Barcelona’s next great success stories from La Masia.
The midfielder earned the trust of Hansi Flick during parts of the season and showed he could compete at the highest level when given the opportunity.
Fast forward a few months, however, and his situation has become far less certain.
With Barcelona’s midfield packed with established stars and emerging talents, the academy graduate finds himself facing a crucial summer.
At 22, Casado is no longer at the stage where he can afford another season spent largely watching from the sidelines, and interest from elsewhere is beginning to grow.
Atletico Madrid are interested in Casado. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
In fact, according to a report from Mundo Deportivo, one of Spain’s biggest clubs is already keeping a close eye on his situation.
Atletico see Casado as a natural fit
While several clubs have expressed interest in the Barcelona midfielder, Atletico Madrid are among those paying particularly close attention.
The report claims that the club’s sporting department holds Casado in high regard and believes his profile could suit Diego Simeone’s side perfectly.
For now, however, the outlet assures that any potential move would depend on Diego Simeone’s approval.
The Argentine coach remains heavily involved in important transfer decisions, and Atletico are unlikely to push forward unless he is fully convinced Casado can become part of his long-term plans.
Casado has multiple options on the table. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
While the admiration from the sporting directors is evident, it is Simeone who will have the final say on the matter.
Casado has more than one option on the table
As reported before, Atletico are not the only club monitoring developments, with Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal also interested in the midfielder.
Financially, the proposal from Saudi Arabia would be difficult to ignore, as Casado could secure a significantly improved contract and become part of one of the most ambitious projects outside European football.
Notably, the presence of Jorge Mendes could fast-track the Saudi operation thanks to his strong relationships in the Middle East market.
Right now, multiple suitors are ready to offer Casado a lucrative sporting project, and the decision rests with the player and Barcelona.
