Man United 'eyeing £67m move' for Barcelona's pass master who could be the ideal midfield partner for Manuel Ugarte

The 21-year-old has made the breakthrough into the Barcelona first team during the 2024-25 campaign, featuring on 33 occasions in all competitions, scoring once and providing six assists in the process.

Casado signed a contract extension last year, with his current deal running until June 2028, but there has recently been speculation surrounding his future, with Chelsea believed to be keen on his services.

Chelsea are thought to have been in touch with Barcelona last summer to register their interest, with a deal thought to be possible before the midfielder penned a fresh deal with the Catalan giants.

According to Fichajes, Man United are also in the hunt, with the 20-time English champions planning to make an offer for the Spain international when this summer's transfer window opens for business.

Man United 'lining up' summer move for Casado

The report claims that Marc Bernal's return from injury next season will push Casado down the pecking order at Barcelona, especially with Frenkie de Jong also returning to form in the second half of this season.

Man United are allegedly prepared to place an offer of £67m on the table, which would be attractive for Barcelona considering their financial issues.

Midfield remains a problematic area for Man United, and with both Christian Eriksen and Casemiro potentially leaving this summer, the English giants will need to bring in another player in that area of the field.

There is also uncertainty when it comes to Kobbie Mainoo's long-term future, with the England international believed to want in the region of £180,000 a week to sign fresh terms at Old Trafford.

Manuel Ugarte's best work comes off the ball, meanwhile, with head coach Ruben Amorim said to be desperate to bring in a ball-playing central midfielder who has defensive instincts.

Would Casado be a good signing for Man United?

Casado is a holding midfielder, but he is also excellent in possession, while he has come up with one goal and six assists in 33 appearances for Barcelona during the 2024-25 campaign.

His unique skillset could make him the ideal player to operate alongside Ugarte in the middle of midfield at Man United, but it would be a surprise if the Red Devils were willing to pay upwards of £50m.

Much will depend on the price and how open Barcelona are to a sale, but if the numbers make sense, then the Spaniard could be a very shrewd signing by the 20-time English champions.

Written by

Matt Law