Chelsea are in talks to make a €35 million offer for 22-year-old FC Barcelona defensive midfielder Marc Casado. The possible transfer has fans in Spain and England abuzz. But the tale is a combination of verified facts, statements by clubs, and rumors. Following is a summary of what is verified — and what is not.
Marc Casado Situation: Chelsea
Marc Casadó is no longer so much of a routine first-choice player under coach Hansi Flick. This is giving him the chance to seek more consistent playing opportunities.
The Chelsea interest of Marc Casado
Several publications now report that Chelsea consider Casadó an attractive choice for their midfield. One report says Chelsea see Marc Casadó as the “perfect fit” for their side and will bid in the €30–35m range. Another says the club is ready to go all the way to the deadline with a €35 million offer. The offer will be placed in January 2026, the stories say.
Other sources indicate Chelsea already attempted to bid for another Barcelona midfielder, Fermín López, but that did not work out. They might be considering Casadó now.
Chelsea’s motivation might come at least somewhat because of their midfield injury woes. Romeo Lavia, Dario Essugo, and Andrey Santos were out of action or injured in some instances.
Barcelona’s attitude and limitations
Barcelona have not officially placed Casadó on the transfer list. Deco, although a sporting director in name, went so far as to state Barcelona never officially placed Casadó on the transfer list. Deco outlined that Barcelona would only be interested if the player had doubts or wanted to leave. This is something he says did not occur.
Similarly, Barcelona are cash-strapped, and one of the ways to make money is by selling graduates from the academy. Others note that Barça would accept bids of €30–35m. This is – if they feel that this will stabilize their finances. But there is domestic opposition to selling home-bred talent. Former coach Oscar Lopez would strenuously oppose the sale of players. Especially players like Casado, Gavi, and Fermin, regardless of price. This is due to their loyalty to the club.
The vast majority of Barca fans feel the same.
Challenges and outlook
Assuming Chelsea came in with an offer of €35m, there are several problems. Casadó will have to be mobile. If he wants to stay and battle for his position, Barcelona can refuse offers. Barcelona will definitely be asking for a premium condition. For example, sell-on clauses, bonuses for performances, etc. Chelsea will have to persuade Casado with playing regular time. Which cannot be easy with their current midfield. There are also other clubs in the wings. Arsenal, Atlético Madrid, West Ham, Wolverhampton, and others are being rumored as interested by sources. Arsenal are more often quoted to be interested. Though occasionally second to Chelsea’s. But if Chelsea hesitate, others can contest. Timing is critical from the point of view of Chelsea. They may win the war before others join in the fray by taking the initiative early. But they must not overpay either and destabilize their team.
Author’s Insight
At present, the story of Chelsea piecing together a €35 million bid for Marc Casado. This must be taken as a solid rumor based on several reports. Neither club has official confirmed the report as yet. Barcelona’s board have publicly denied having put Casado out on the market. That said, the fact that the books are in a mess at Barca. Chelsea are so badly needed in the midfield ledger means that this is one to watch. If the move does occur, Casado would trade his role as possible, intermittent Barca fringe player for a larger role at the Premier League. For Chelsea, it would be a gamble on youth and promise. The next few weeks will determine if this is a rumor or not.
