Chelsea dealt crushing Barcelona blow

Chelsea have been informed that Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado isn’t for sale, according to reports in Spain.

The 21-year-old has enjoyed a breakout campaign under Hansi Flick, and his form so far this season has attracted the attention of both Chelsea and Manchester United.

The Blues have expressed the most significant interest, as per reports, but Enzo Maresca’s side have been told that Casado will not be leaving Barcelona in 2025, according to Fichajes.

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The Spaniard has racked up an impressive tally of five assists in 15 appearances across all competitions so far this term, and Chelsea were reportedly interested in a swap deal involving Casado and Argentina international Enzo Fernandez.

Fernandez, 23, has been usurped by Romeo Lavia in the Blues’ preferred starting XI and he has been linked with a Stamford Bridge exit amid reported interest from Barcelona, Real Madrid and Inter Milan.

However, he looks destined to remain in west London for the time being, with Barca unwilling to lose Casado amid his immense recent form.

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Marc Casado on Hansi Flick

Following his breakthrough under Flick, Casado recently heaped praise on the new Barcelona boss after his impressive start to life at Camp Nou.

“The coach has helped me a lot to start playing games in the first team, he gives me a lot of confidence to play,” Casado told reporters (as per Football Espana).

“He also tells me very clearly what I have to do so that I can get the best out of myself. I am very grateful to him.

“It is clear that these are my first matches in the First Division and I am feeling comfortable and good. I think that both the coach and my teammates are helping me. I am happy with everything and I hope it can continue like this.

“I think he has helped me a lot to be able to achieve my maximum performance, to understand many aspects of football. So things can go even better,” Casado added.

“With the coach we have things very clear, we are clear about what we have to do. We have also worked a lot on the tactical aspects, we analysed the rivals a lot, as we do ourselves. We trust him and that things will go well for all of us.”