Former youth coach gives Bayer Leverkusen an edge in Marc Casado transfer race

Marc Casado is considering a number of options for his future, with interest from clubs across Europe, Saudi Arabia and Turkey, but Bayer Leverkusen could emerge as the most attractive destination for the Barcelona midfielder because of his long-standing relationship with coach Carles Martinez.

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Casado has received offers or attracted interest from clubs in England, Italy and Germany, as well as from Saudi Arabia and Turkey. However, the latter two destinations are not currently a priority for the player, who would prefer to continue his career in one of Europe’s major leagues.

Several Bundesliga clubs are monitoring the situation, with RB Leipzig among those interested. Real Betis have also entered the race in recent hours, as the Andalusian club value Casado’s qualities and the player is willing to consider remaining in La Liga.

Leverkusen’s proposal, however, contains an additional factor that could give it an advantage over the other alternatives. Carles Martinez knows Casado well, having been the first coach to oversee his development in Barcelona’s youth academy, La Masia.

The connection between the pair dates back several years. Martinez spent four years working at La Masia before moving into professional football, and his relationship with Casado continued in the years that followed.

That history could give Casado the chance to work again under a coach who has understood his abilities and followed his progress since the earliest stages of his career.

Martinez joined Bayer Leverkusen this summer after his spell with French club Toulouse. He signed a contract with the German side until June 2028 as he began a new project in the Bundesliga.

The make-up of Leverkusen’s midfield could also influence whether Casado moves to the club. The future of Robert Andrich remains uncertain after he lost the captaincy following Martinez’s arrival.

The new coach has confirmed that Edmond Tapsoba will assume the captain’s armband. Andrich’s position has become more complicated after he was told he could find it difficult to secure regular playing time, although the player has indicated that he does not want to leave as long as he continues to feel important to the team.

If Andrich does depart, Casado could become one of the leading candidates to help replace him in Leverkusen’s midfield. That would provide a sporting reason for the transfer in addition to the personal connection between the player and Martinez.

Real Betis remain an option for Casado, particularly because of the possibility of staying in Spain. Nevertheless, Leverkusen appears to fit his current priorities more closely by combining the challenge of the Bundesliga, the club’s sporting project and the opportunity to reunite with the coach who witnessed his first steps at La Masia.

No final decision has been reported, but the growing list of interested clubs means Casado faces a significant choice over the next stage of his career. With offers from several countries and Martinez now in charge at Leverkusen, the German club has a distinctive advantage in the midfielder’s deliberations.