Barcelona offer midfielder linked to Manchester United to Monaco

Manchester United are expected to strengthen their midfield options this summer, but one of the players previously linked with a move to Old Trafford appears to have no desire to leave Barcelona.

The Red Devils are preparing for life after Casemiro following the Brazilian’s departure and have cast a wide net in their search for reinforcements, with several names emerging as potential targets to partner Kobbie Mainoo in Michael Carrick’s side next season.

While much of the focus has been on players such as Ederson, Sandro Tonali, Matheus Fernandes, Carlos Baleba and Aurelien Tchouameni, Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado has also been mentioned as a possible option in recent months.

However, developments in Spain suggest the 22-year-old’s future may lie far away from Manchester.

Casado’s situation at Camp Nou has become a talking point after another campaign in which opportunities were difficult to come by under Hansi Flick, leading to speculation that a summer exit could eventually suit all parties.

AS Monaco interested in Marc Casado

A number of clubs are monitoring the midfielder’s availability, with reports from Mundo Deportivo indicating that AS Monaco have become the latest side to explore the possibility of a deal.

The Ligue 1 club are already doing business involving Barcelona, having moved closer to completing the permanent signing of Ansu Fati following his loan spell, and discussions regarding Marc Casado reportedly surfaced during recent meetings involving agent Jorge Mendes.

Monaco’s interest is understandable given their European ambitions and the expected arrival of Filipe Luis as head coach, with the French club viewing the Barcelona academy graduate as a player capable of strengthening their midfield department.

Despite the growing attention from abroad, Casado has consistently made it clear where his priorities lie.

Speaking earlier this year after Barcelona’s victory over Real Oviedo, the midfielder said: “Wearing this shirt [Barcelona] will always be my priority.”

He added: “It’s a dream I’ve had since I was a child and I hope it stays that way for many years.”

Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has also publicly backed the midfielder and dismissed suggestions of an exit.

“For me, there’s no question of him leaving,” Flick said. “We need everyone. Marc is a super professional player.”

The German continued: “He deserved to play today [vs Real Oviedo]. He’s worked hard. I liked what I saw. That’s the Casado we want to see.”

Casado was reportedly close to leaving during the January transfer window before discussions with Flick convinced him to remain until the end of the campaign.

Although the midfielder managed just 1 assist in 34 appearances this season and has struggled for consistent minutes, his public comments suggest he remains committed to fighting for his place at Barcelona.