Premier League duo Crystal Palace and Newcastle United are keeping close tabs on Barcelona youth sensation Marc Casado.
A recent report from Mundo Deportivo has offered an update on the future of Marc Casado. The Barcelona youth player is attracting major interest from clubs across Europe due to his consistent performances in the youth leagues. Newcastle United and Crystal Palace are among the clubs keeping close tabs on the young midfielder, whose current deal expires at the end of the season.
Although Casado’s ambition is to continue his progress at Barcelona, there has not been any dialogue over a possible renewal. It has put the Premier League outfits on alert as they look to swoop the youngster away from Catalonia in the summer.
A central midfielder by trade, Casado has been one of the top performers for Barcelona’s Under-19 side this season. He is considered as one of the most promising up and coming talents from an academy that has produced a multitude of gifted talents in recent years, with the player also training with Xavi Hernandez’s first team on a few occasions.
However, the stacked Barcelona midfield could make things difficult for Casado to make his breakthrough in professional football. It could compel him to entertain the idea of a potential move away from Camp Nou, although Barcelona may offload multiple unwanted stars, including Sergi Roberto, who is a target for Arsenal and Manchester City.
Casado’s situation is being followed closely by Crystal Palace, who have done well to develop young talents under the tutelage of Patrick Vieira so far. While the likes of Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze have made a solid impression, the Eagles will have to let go of Chelsea loanee Conor Gallagher.
Gallagher’s potential return to Stamford Bridge could accentuate the need for someone like Casado, who can prove to be a useful option in the middle of the park.
However, Palace are set to face stiff competition from Newcastle United in the pursuit of the Barcelona teenager. While the Magpies have been largely linked with established superstars, ever since the takeover from the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund, it is apparent that Eddie Howe is also looking at adding budding youngsters, as indicated by their interest in Reyes Cleary.
As such, it will be imperative for the club to nurture young talents as well as attract star players. A proper blend of experience and youth could help Newcastle transition faster. Casado, to that end, could be an ideal addition to the club’s ranks, although it remains to be seen whether Barcelona come up with an extension offer to keep hold of the 18-year-old beyond the summer.
