Manchester United summer target Marc Casadó draws attention from PL rivals Arsenal and Chelsea
Manchester United spent much of the summer looking for their midfield options. The club seemed unsure which direction to take. We reported earlier that Manchester United eyed Marc Casadó in the summer, exploring the chance to sign the young Spaniard before shifting focus elsewhere. The search for stability in midfield continues. Casemiro nears the end of his career, and Manuel Ugarte still struggles to adapt. Spanish outlet Fichajes reports that Marc Casadó, a 22-year-old midfielder from FC Barcelona, attracts interest from both Arsenal and Chelsea ahead of the winter transfer window.
Arsenal want to strengthen their midfield depth. With Martín Zubimendi established as a starter, Mikel Arteta needs a player who can compete for that position and offer rotation during the busy Premier League and European fixtures. Casadó shows composure on the ball and smart positioning. He fits that need perfectly. The 22-year-old’s performances under Hansi Flick have raised his profile. Arsenal may soon make a fair offer to convince Barcelona to sell him.
Chelsea have also joined the race under Enzo Maresca. The club already has Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo but wants a young midfielder who brings balance, defensive work rate, and technical quality. Casadó’s versatility attracts the Chelsea manager, and so the club closely monitors his situation. They will check on injuries, squad depth, and budget before deciding. Barcelona demand between €30 and €35 million for him. That price suits both London clubs. His contract runs until 2028, but the Catalan club may sell the Spaniard if they receive a suitable offer.
Why should United look elsewhere?
Casadó’s qualities make him an appealing option for teams seeking a midfielder with energy, control, and tactical awareness. He breaks up play well and moves the ball forward quickly. Manchester United could have signed him as a smart alternative to costly options like Carlos Baleba or Adam Wharton. However, with Arsenal and Chelsea now fighting for him, United should step aside from this battle.
Given their current situation, United should target other players who can offer similar skills without heavy competition. Someone like Lucien Agoumé from Sevilla fits that need. He remains capable, available, and easier to sign. As the winter window approaches, United must act with focus instead of rushing decisions, as they really need a quality and young defensive midfielder to make Amorim’s tactics successful.
However, it will be tough to crack this battle for Casado. Meanwhile, Napoli are eyeing Kobbie Mainoo, and uncertainty surrounds his future at Old Trafford as Amorim has not used him frequently. Casadó looks set for a Premier League move, but it may not involve the club that many expected a few months ago.