Inter Milan has submitted a €40 million offer for Barcelona midfielder Marc Casadó, according to sources close to the negotiations. The bid, which arrived at the Camp Nou offices earlier this week, signals the Serie A club's intent to strengthen its midfield ahead of the January transfer window.
The bid and the player
Casadó, 21, came through Barcelona's La Masia academy and made his first-team debut last season. He's primarily a central midfielder but can also play as a defensive pivot. The €40 million figure matches the release clause in his contract, though Barcelona could negotiate a lower fee if they accept add-ons or a structured payment plan.
Inter's offer is the first formal approach for the Spanish U21 international. The club's sporting director, Piero Ausilio, has been tracking Casadó for months, viewing him as a long-term replacement for aging midfielders like Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
Barcelona's financial calculus
Barcelona is under pressure to reduce its wage bill and generate transfer revenue. The club's La Liga spending cap remains tight, and selling a homegrown player like Casadó would count as pure profit in the books. However, manager Xavi Hernández rates Casadó highly and has used him in rotation this season.
The Catalan side hasn't responded publicly to the bid. A decision is expected within the next two weeks, as Inter wants clarity before the winter window opens.
Inter's midfield overhaul
Inter has been reshaping its midfield under Simone Inzaghi. The club already signed Davide Frattesi last summer and is looking for another young, energetic presence. Casadó fits the profile: he's comfortable on the ball, presses well, and can cover ground.
The €40 million bid is significant for Inter, which has operated under tighter budgets in recent years. The club's owners, Oaktree Capital, have approved the offer but want to ensure it doesn't jeopardize other targets.
For now, the ball is in Barcelona's court. They can accept, counter, or reject. If they hold out for more, Inter may walk away. If they accept, Casadó would become the latest La Masia graduate to leave for a fee.
