BLOCKBUSTER: Rabiot, one step away from signing with Barcelona

The Olympique de Marseille has become one of the major players in this end-of-summer transfer market, with its name once again linked to FC Barcelona. In recent weeks, there has been talk of Marc Casadó's departure, but this time it would be related to an old target: Adrien Rabiot.

According to MundoDeportivo, the sports management led by Pablo Longoria and Medhi Benatia is considering an unprecedented formula: an exchange between Adrien Rabiot and Marc Casadó, an operation that could alleviate the financial situation of Barça and, at the same time, strengthen the midfield of the French team.

The idea arises following the internal conflict involving Rabiot in the Marseille locker room, where a heated argument with Jonathan Rowe reportedly ended his continuity. The 30-year-old French international, who barely completed a season at the club, is now transfer-listed. Roberto De Zerbi, the team's coach, has given the green light to search for a reliable replacement, and one of the most favored names at the Velodrome is the young Marc Casadó, the current midfielder at Barcelona.

Barcelona Prefers to Sell Marc Casadó for Money

Casadó, only 21 years old, has shown in the Blaugrana first team that he can perform confidently in high-pressure situations. He was an undisputed starter in crucial stages of the last season, although he lost prominence after Frenkie de Jong's recovery. Barcelona is aware that they have a promising and valuable player, who could also help improve their delicate financial fair play situation.

In France, it is rumored that Marseille would be open to proposing a player exchange: Rabiot to wear the Blaugrana jersey while Casadó lands in Ligue 1. This proposal, at first glance, would allow Barça to strengthen with an internationally experienced midfielder without significant economic outlay, albeit at the expense of letting go of one of their La Masia jewels.

Casadó's market value is around €30 million, while Rabiot's value is similar, though influenced by his contractual situation and the internal issues in Marseille. If the swap is finalized, the two clubs could close the deal without major financial moves, merely balancing the books with minor adjustments.

For Barcelona, it would be an opportunity to address some squad limitations with a player seasoned in the Champions League, with a history at PSG and Juventus. For Marseille, it would signify a bet on a young project, with growth potential and room for appreciation.

Casadó's case is not only of concern to Marseille. In recent weeks, several teams have been exploring his situation. In the Premier League, clubs like West Ham and Wolverhampton have taken note of his abilities. In Spain, Atlético de Madrid and Real Betis see him as an ideal piece to strengthen their midfields. For Betis, he would be the perfect replacement for Johnny Cardoso, who was recently transferred.

However, Barça has made it clear that they will not consider offers below €30 million. Hence, the swap option with Rabiot could be the easiest way to align interests without devaluing the Catalan club in negotiations.

The main obstacle to the deal lies with Casadó himself. The academy player has always expressed his desire to establish himself in Barcelona's first team. Moving abroad, even to a prestigious club like Marseille, means giving up on that goal (at least for now). Additionally, the young midfielder is aware that Hansi Flick could offer him more playing time in the medium term, considering the confidence he has always shown.

On the other side, Rabiot is also not in his best form. At 30 years old, his reputation as an inconsistent player and his frequent internal clashes have marked his career. However, his experience and proven quality make him an attractive option for Barcelona, who aim to bolster positions with established players without major financial outlays.

The possible Rabiot-Casadó swap is currently one of the most discussed options in France and Spain. The operation would benefit two clubs with different needs: Marseille seeking rejuvenation after the departure of a controversial figure, while Barcelona would find in the Frenchman an experienced midfielder to compete at the highest level.

The final decision rests with Marc Casadó, whose choice will be crucial in determining whether he becomes the protagonist of one of the most surprising moves of this transfer window.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, BOMBAZO: Rabiot, a un paso de fichar por el Barcelona