The Ruben Amorim era at Old Trafford is entering a critical phase, and it seems the recruitment focus has shifted toward Catalonia.
As of Saturday, January 17, 2026, reports from Mundo Deportivo and TEAMtalk suggest that Manchester United have identified Barcelona’s Marc Casadó as their primary midfield target for the summer 2026 window.
While United recently appointed Michael Carrick as interim manager following a mid-season shake-up, the long-term recruitment strategy—driven by the INEOS sporting department—remains centered on the profiles requested by the project’s architects.
The Profile: Why Casadó?
Casadó, 22, has been one of the quiet revelations of La Liga over the last 18 months. Often compared to a hybrid of Rodri and Joshua Kimmich, he has become the "tactical glue" in Hansi Flick’s Barcelona squad.
Elite Distribution: Casadó currently ranks in the 91st percentile for forward pass completion among European midfielders.
The "Ugarte" Alternative: United view Casadó as the technical upgrade to Manuel Ugarte. While Ugarte provides defensive steel, Casadó offers the press-resistance and ball progression that United have lacked since the decline of Casemiro.
Versatility: Though primarily a defensive pivot, he has successfully filled in at right-back for Barcelona this season, a trait highly valued by the United hierarchy.
Transfer Insider (Jan 16, 2026): "United are ready to go big for Casadó. They see him as a 10-year solution for their midfield.
Barcelona don't want to sell, but their ongoing 'Fair Play' limitations mean a bid north of £60m will have to be considered."
The Player’s Stance: Home vs. Horizon
Despite the noise from Manchester, Casadó’s current priority is Barcelona. He is reportedly keen to continue his development under Hansi Flick, especially with the return of Marc Bernal from injury creating a healthy competition for the pivot role. However, the lure of becoming a "main man" in the Premier League rebuild—and a significantly higher wage package—could shift his perspective by June.
The Verdict: While a January move is highly unlikely given Barcelona’s title charge, the foundations are being laid for a blockbuster summer pursuit. If United can offload high-earners like Casemiro, Casadó represents the exact profile of "young, elite, and technically gifted" player the new regime is hunting.