Arsenal and Chelsea are reportedly interested in Barcelona youngster Marc Casado.
The 21-year-old has not featured since prior to the international break and is set to miss the remainder of the 2024-25 campaign owing to a ligament injury.
As a result, Casado was not involved in either of the Catalan club's handsome victories since returning from the two-week break, most recently against Girona on Sunday afternoon.
The Spaniard has played an integral part for Hansi Flick's side as they hunt down the La Liga crown this term, starting 20 league contests and providing four goal contributions.
As well as shining on the club scene, Casado has also made waves on the international stage for La Roja, earning his senior debut for the European champions in November.
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Arsenal, Chelsea to submit €40m bids for Barcelona starlet Casado?
According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Casado could be heading out of the Camp Nou door ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, with a number of big European clubs circling around the talent.
The report states that Premier League rivals Arsenal and Chelsea are both interested in adding the 21-year-old to their respective squads in the near future.
It is understood that the Gunners and the Blues are willing to offer up to €40m (£33.4m) for Casado, who is set to be on the sidelines for the rest of the term because of injury.
At this moment in time, Barcelona are not actively pushing for the departure of the midfielder, however the Spanish giants would supposedly listen to suitable offers.
There is a general consensus that Casado sits behind Frenkie de Jong in the pecking order of Flick's midfield, making a summer exit more likely for the academy graduate.
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Who needs Casado the most?
With both Thomas Partey and Jorginho hurtling towards the conclusion of their contracts at the Emirates, Arsenal are approaching an important crossroads for their midfield ranks.
There is certainly an argument that the title-chasing Gunners require an injection of youthfulness into the engine room, something that Casado would provide.
Focusing further West in the English capital, Chelsea have improved this season under Enzo Maresca but still have issues to iron out until they can be genuine contenders for the Premier League crown.
It is debatable whether Casado would represent an upgrade on Moises Caicedo or Enzo Fernandez, however the 21-year-old could definitely play a positive part at Stamford Bridge next season.
Carter White
