AC Milan emerge as leading candidate to sign Barcelona homegrown midfielder

Marc Casado is widely expected to leave Barcelona during this summer’s transfer window, with AC Milan emerging as one of the strongest contenders for his signature, reports SPORT.

The academy graduate is unlikely to enjoy significant playing time under Hansi Flick next season, prompting both player and club to explore a move.

Barcelona would prefer a permanent transfer to strengthen their financial position and improve their salary cap, but Casado is taking a patient approach and intends to choose his next club carefully.

His priority is finding a sporting project where he will play a meaningful role, and recent developments in Italy could offer exactly that opportunity.

Milan exploring a deal

Casado’s agent, Jorge Mendes, has been actively working to identify the best solution for both the player and Barcelona.

While interest has arrived from Saudi Arabia, the midfielder remains focused on continuing his career in Europe. That preference has made negotiations more complicated, with interested clubs reluctant to commit to a transfer fee exceeding €20 million.

Most discussions have centred on loan deals with purchase options rather than immediate permanent transfers.

Casado will leave Barcelona. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Among those possibilities, AC Milan have emerged as a serious option. The Italian giants have recently appointed Ruben Amorim as head coach and are also progressing in negotiations to sign PSG striker Gonçalo Ramos.

Loan deal the most likely formula

Any move to Milan would depend on several factors. The Serie A club are still working on outgoing transfers before strengthening their midfield, with Youssouf Fofana among the players who could leave.

Mendes has already presented Casado as a potential reinforcement, and Milan view him as a player capable of thriving in Italian football. However, the financial structure remains crucial.

Rather than committing to an expensive permanent transfer immediately, Milan are believed to favour a loan agreement that includes a non-mandatory option to buy.

Such a deal would allow Casado to develop while giving the club flexibility before making a long-term commitment.

Other options remain open

Mendes has also explored opportunities in the Premier League and held discussions with Monaco, although neither avenue has progressed significantly.

No shortage of interest. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Several Portuguese clubs have shown interest, but their financial proposals have fallen below Barcelona’s expectations. Meanwhile, a move to Saudi Arabia has effectively been ruled out by the player.

Within Spain, Casado also has potential destinations, although the domestic market remains relatively quiet.

Real Betis are among the clubs monitoring his situation but must first generate funds through player sales before making any move.

The Andalusian side could only afford to purchase a percentage of the player’s rights, similar to the structure used in their acquisition of Abde. The strong relationship between Barcelona and Betis could facilitate negotiations if that option develops further.

Although several possibilities remain under consideration, Casado’s departure is expected to take shape during July rather than immediately.

Barcelona continue to favour a permanent sale, while the midfielder remains committed to selecting the project that offers the strongest sporting pathway.