Bayer Leverkusen join Besiktas in pursuit of Barcelona’s Marc Casado

Bayer Leverkusen have stepped up their interest in Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado, with Besiktas continuing to push for the 22-year-old during the final days of the summer transfer window.

According to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, Casado is approaching a decisive point in determining his future. Leverkusen have emerged as a serious candidate for his signature, while Besiktas have maintained their efforts to reach an agreement and bring the midfielder to Turkey.

Casado is one of the Barcelona players who could leave the club during the closing stages of the transfer window. The midfielder, who came through the club’s La Masia academy, is still waiting for clarity over where he will play next season.

A move to Germany could appeal to Casado because Leverkusen’s project appears to match several of the qualities associated with his development at Barcelona. The Bundesliga club have a reputation for giving opportunities to young players, while their footballing philosophy is considered to share some similarities with Barcelona’s approach.

Leverkusen are being managed this season by Carles Martinez, the Catalan coach who is taking charge of the German side for the first time. Martinez knows Casado well and is familiar with the various stages of his development within Barcelona’s academy.

That relationship could become an important factor as Casado considers his options and assesses any proposal from Leverkusen. The presence of a coach who understands both the midfielder’s background and his training at La Masia may make the German club’s offer particularly attractive.

Leverkusen therefore represent an increasingly interesting destination for Casado. The midfielder could view the club as a developing team capable of offering young talent a prominent role, while also providing the opportunity to continue his progress in a major competition such as the Bundesliga.

Besiktas remain the other leading contender. The Turkish club have continued to apply pressure over a possible deal and, alongside Leverkusen, are regarded as the most serious suitors for Casado at this late stage of the transfer market.

There has also been interest from the Premier League. Several English clubs have made enquiries to establish the player’s situation, including Everton. However, that initial interest has not yet developed into an offer, meaning there is currently no indication of advanced negotiations involving the English club.

Casado’s future is consequently expected to be resolved in the final days of the window, with Leverkusen and Besiktas currently appearing to be the clubs showing the strongest determination to sign him.