20-year-old Barcelona midfield talent attracting interest from several La Liga and European teams

While Xavi has given regular minutes to several Barcelona youth team players this season, a certain Marc Casado has only played 22 minutes with the first team in the UEFA Champions League.

This is particularly disappointing for the youngster given that he is a defensive midfielder and Barcelona are yearning for a player who can guard the defence. 

Given the situation at hand, journalist Jordi Cardero has affirmed that several top La Liga as well as European teams are keeping a close eye on the 20-year-old.

This is because his deal runs out in June this year, although there is an option to extend it for another year.

Many teams have eyes on Casado

Casado’s current contract is set to conclude in the summer, with an available option for a one-year extension. Despite his active efforts, the awaited chance with the first team has yet to materialize.

In fact, it is said that Xavi has called him for first-team training on 34 occasions for La Liga matches but he is yet to appear in any.

While the 20-year-old remains optimistic about securing his opportunity, multiple teams, including Granada, Valencia, and Lazio, have shown keen interest. However, these clubs are not the sole contenders in monitoring his situation.

Marc Casado has played just 22 minutes for Barcelona this season. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

As Casado’s contract approaches its end, Barcelona faces the responsibility of transforming him from a mere market opportunity into a player integral to their squad.

“He would have to take the definitive step, he has shown it with the reserve team and the first team,” says one of the coaches from the youth team while keeping in mind that Xavi’s departure in the summer might not do anything good for Casado.

Important piece in the youth team

Casado, the captain of Barça Atletic, plays a crucial role in Rafa Marquez’s overall plan, contributing significantly both on and off the field.

Whenever the schedule permits and upon Xavi’s invitation, he joins the first team on weekends.

Having joined Barcelona’s youth academy at the age of 13 in 2016, Casado initially competed with the Blaugrana Infantil A team. His ascent through the various categories led him to his current position, reaching the Barça Atletic in the developmental ladder.

At 20 years of age, the only thing that eludes him is regular participation in the first team, and it is expected that he is ready to take the next big step in his career.

Whether it will be at Barcelona or elsewhere depends on the club and their decision regarding his contract situation.