FC Barcelona starlet Marc Casado’s future remains unresolved, but a move to Saudi Arabia is becoming increasingly likely.
Al-Hilal have shown a strong interest in the Barcelona midfielder and have not given up on their pursuit of the La Masia graduate.
New offer incoming
As such, according to reports in Saudi Arabia, as relayed by SPORT, Al-Hilal are now preparing another attempt to sign him before the transfer window closes.
The Riyadh club have decided to step up their efforts after learning that Casado has yet to make a definitive decision about his next destination. The midfielder has received several proposals and is still weighing his options.
Al-Hilal have already made approaches worth around €30 million and are now preparing an improved offer in an attempt to convince both the player and Barcelona.
Not in Hansi Flick’s plans. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Al-Ahli also interested
Al-Hilal are not the only Saudi club following Casado. Al-Ahli have also shown interest in the Barcelona academy product and remain attentive to developments.
Having two major Saudi clubs competing for the midfielder could work in Barça’s favour. The Catalan giants believe the competition could push the final transfer fee closer to its target.
Barcelona’s position is straightforward: €40 million. The Blaugrana do not intend to facilitate Casado’s departure for less and hope one of the interested parties will eventually meet that valuation.
Casado unhappy after training exile
While negotiations continue, Casado’s sporting situation has become increasingly complicated.
The midfielder has been removed from the first-team training group, alongside several other players whose futures are also uncertain. He also did not travel with Barcelona to Udine for the pre-season triangular.
Casado is being made to train separately. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
The decision has caused frustration for the academy graduate, who expected to continue training normally while his future was being resolved.
Casado understands that his situation is linked to the transfer negotiations, but he has not hidden his disappointment at being separated from the squad.
For Barcelona, the transfer is important for more than simply resolving Casado’s future. A deal worth around €40 million would provide significant income and additional financial breathing room.
With Al-Hilal preparing another bid and Al-Ahli also monitoring the situation, the coming days could be decisive. Barça will hope the competition between the Saudi clubs produces an offer that finally meets their demands.