Barcelona have confirmed that Marc Casado and Fermin Lopez will not be sold this summer, marking a clear decision by Hansi Flick and Deco amid a broader squad restructure aimed at complying with La Liga’s 1:1 spending rule.
La Masia Duo Safe: Barcelona Say “Not for Sale” to Casado & Lopez
Both players, emerging from La Masia’s esteemed youth system, had attracted external interest including from Chelsea and clubs in Saudi Arabia. However, the club clarified that they remain integral to Barcelona’s plans for the upcoming season.
Casado and Lopez are seen as part of the club’s long-term midfield depth. Neither Flick nor sporting director Deco are entertaining offers, signaling confidence in their potential impact under the new management.
This decision comes amid a busy summer for Barca. They have already bid farewell to Ansu Fati, Clement Lenglet, and likely Pablo Torre and Inaki Pena key moves designed to free up funds and reduce the wage bill.
The club continues to push for registration flexibility, aiming to broaden roster opportunities while adhering to financial regulations.
Barcelona hope that further departures—possibly including Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who has been informed he’s no longer first-choice, though he has vowed to stay and vie for his spot will help them fully meet the 1:1 rule.
For Casado, a defensive-minded midfielder, and Lopez, who offers pace and creativity, this vote of confidence could be pivotal.
While younger talents like Joan Garcia, Frenkie de Jong, and Gavi dominate headlines, Barcelona want to ensure they retain strong squad balance actively resisting opportunistic sales to safeguard their developmental ethos.
As Barcelona build under Flick’s stewardship, this stands as a symbolic commitment to La Masia a reminder that even amid financial constraints, the club is determined to hold onto the core of its homegrown talent.
