Crystal Palace have formally submitted a €25m (£22m) opening bid for Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado, with negotiations now officially underway.
The Eagles are targeting Casado as a new option in central midfield, viewing him as the perfect addition given his described high footballing IQ.
Crystal Palace face competition from Premier League rivals Chelsea, who are also understood to be interested in securing the 22-year-old’s signature.
Barcelona are yet to respond to the offer, leaving the outcome of the move uncertain as the summer transfer window heats up.
Casado played a sporadic role in Barcelona’s recent La Liga title triumph, making 24 appearances but often being restricted to late substitute appearances.
The Spanish midfielder recorded a 91% pass-completion rate across 981 minutes of La Liga action, winning 47 duels and making 18 tackles throughout the campaign.
Former Barcelona defender Rafael Marquez has been vocal in his praise, saying: “His attitude, his character and his desire to improve every day.”
Marquez added: “He never stops fighting. He is very competitive. When things go wrong, he is very positive. He is a total leader.”
Casado has contributed one goal and seven assists across 75 appearances for Barcelona, suggesting he can offer creativity alongside his defensive midfield qualities.
Palace’s midfield situation is further complicated by uncertainty surrounding both Daichi Kamada and Adam Wharton heading into the summer.
Kamada is set to depart when his contract expires, while Wharton has attracted interest from elsewhere, with Manchester United named as potential suitors.
Manager Oliver Glasner praised both midfielders following Palace’s 1-0 Conference League final victory over Rayo Vallecano, saying: “I don’t normally like to praise individuals too much, but I have to say that Adam and Daichi [Kamada] played very, very well.”
Sky Sports News journalist James Savundra confirmed the club wants to convince both players to remain at Selhurst Park, with a Europa League campaign awaiting next season.
Kamada is reported to want to stay in London, which represents an encouraging sign for Palace’s retention efforts ahead of a crucial summer.