Forest leads race for Casado as multiple Premier League clubs circle Barcelona midfielder

According to TEAMtalk, Nottingham Forest is hoping to complete a major signing before the transfer window closes and has shown strong interest in 22-year-old Marc Casado, who is set to leave Barcelona.

Marc Casado has become a target for several Premier League clubs. TEAMtalk has confirmed that Barcelona is prepared to allow the highly-regarded midfielder to leave, with Nottingham Forest currently leading the race to sign him.

The 22-year-old Spanish international has seen his playing time significantly reduced under Hansi Flick. Although Barcelona's management still rates his abilities highly, the club has made it clear they are willing to let him seek a new club.

Casado made only 10 starts last season. The midfielder now believes that a transfer and a change of environment are essential for his continued development.

His future at Barcelona has been further undermined by a symbolic move: his former number 17 shirt has been taken over by new signing Anthony Gordon.

His situation has attracted significant interest from England. Manchester City's City Football Group and Chelsea's BlueCo group explored signing Casado earlier this summer, planning to bring him in before potentially loaning him to one of their affiliated clubs.

However, Casado rejected this approach because he views it as too similar to his current situation at Barcelona, which he is trying to escape. He wants to join a club where he can establish himself as a key player and secure regular first-team football.

This has intensified the Premier League battle for Casado, with Nottingham Forest emerging as the frontrunner.

Nottingham Forest leads charge for Barcelona midfielder Casado

TEAMtalk understands that Nottingham Forest has shown strong interest in Casado. Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Brighton, and Sunderland have also made contact regarding the midfielder.

Manchester United held talks with Casado earlier this summer, but TEAMtalk understands the Red Devils have now withdrawn from the race after agreeing to sign Carlos Baleba.

European clubs are also monitoring Casado's situation, with Benfica, managed by Marco Silva, keeping close tabs on developments. Additionally, clubs in Turkey and Saudi Arabia have explored the possibility of signing him.

However, Casado is not currently interested in moving to the Middle East.

The midfielder's priority is to find a club where he can consistently secure first-team appearances and continue his development in a top-tier league.

Barcelona is prepared to listen to offers and recognizes that allowing Casado to leave at this stage may be the best solution for both parties.

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