Aston Villa are reportedly pushing to land 21-year-old Spanish talent Marc Casado from Barcelona ahead of the summer window.

Per El Pais via Sport Witness, Villa have identified the defensive midfielder as a priority signing as they aim to strengthen their squad. The young Barcelona prospect has therefore become a key target for the West Midlands side.

Unai Emery’s team have tabled an offer of €30 million, which matches Barcelona’s valuation. On top of that, Villa are willing to quadruple Casado’s salary to persuade him to leave Camp Nou for Villa Park. The player’s decision is still pending, and it remains to be seen whether he is ready to cut ties with Barcelona this summer.

Casado’s breakthrough at Barcelona
Marc Casado has quickly grown into one of La Liga’s brightest young midfielders since stepping up from Barcelona’s youth ranks. The 21-year-old made his first-team debut in November 2022 but only truly broke through during the 2023/24 campaign.

Under Hansi Flick, Casado has become a regular, amassing 36 appearances in all competitions while contributing one goal and six assists. His consistency and maturity have caught the attention of several clubs, with Aston Villa among those closely tracking him. Barcelona, however, have set a €30 million asking price, leaving the door open to a sale.

Villa’s midfield situation
Aston Villa’s pursuit of Casado stems from uncertainty in their midfield. Both Amadou Onana and Youri Tielemans have been linked with big-money moves to the Saudi Pro League, forcing the club to consider replacements. Casado fits the profile of a long-term holding midfielder, making him an attractive option.

Villa’s €30 million offer is already on the table, while talks with the player’s camp have included the promise of a significant pay rise. Yet, competition is expected to be fierce, with Wolverhampton Wanderers also reported as suitors. Whether Casado chooses to swap Barcelona for the Premier League will become clearer as the transfer window edges closer to its conclusion.