Atletico Madrid Consider Barcelona Midfielder as Alternative to Ederson

Atletico Madrid are reportedly considering signing Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado as an alternative to Atalanta’s Ederson.

Atletico Madrid have sold Conor Gallagher to Tottenham Hotspur for a €40 million fee, and are now actively looking for midfield reinforcements. The Atletico board feels there are not enough high-quality alternatives available to cope with the remainder of the season.

Ederson has emerged as a favourite thanks to his physical profile. However, he is seen as a more attainable target for the summer transfer window.

Atalanta are not looking for a quick buck and are in a position to push the transfer back until next summer. Ederson is also happy at Atalanta for the time being and will not push for a move in the last 10 days of the winter transfer window.

Atletico Interested in Barcelona Midfield Talent Marc Casado

With Ederson’s move looking more and more unlikely, Atletico Madrid have prepared a list of alternatives. And according to Fichajes.net, Barcelona academy graduate Marc Casado sits at the top.

Atletico Madrid see Casado as a midfielder capable of asserting control in the middle of the park. They admire his intensity, tactical acumen, and discipline, and believe he could slot into the starting XI from day one.

Los Rojiblancos are also encouraged by Casado’s sporting situation and Barcelona’s tricky financial state.

Seen that United have reportedly “asked” about Marc Casado availability this January as Flick’s squad rotation has seen his minutes drop, and honestly, signing him would be a massive “profile” win—he gives us the ball retention and defensive coverage we’ve been crying out for.… pic.twitter.com/pmjOUNgf3Q

— Rising Gems (@RisingGemsz) January 19, 2026

Casado, who came through La Masia, has yet to establish himself as a regular first-team player under Hansi Flick. The 23-year-old is eager to play regularly and is open to a change of scenery in the January transfer window.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup only a few months away, regular football and impressive performances could open the door to a call-up.

Pedri’s injury on Wednesday may have complicated matters for Casado and Atletico. With Pedri set to miss several games after hamstrig injury, Flick might be reluctant to let Casado leave in the business end of the season.

Manchester United have also registered their interest in Casado.

Atletico’s Offer for Casado

According to the aforementioned report, Atletico Madrid want to sign Casado initially on loan. However, they have offered to add some easily attainable clauses to his contract.

If those are fulfilled, Atletico would have to trigger the mandatory purchase clause. The purchase clause could reach up to €30 million. Los Colchoneros find the valuation high, but are willing to pay it if Casado lives up to expectations.

As for Barcelona, they are looking for opportunities to increase funds for next summer. And selling a homegrown player ensures maximum profit.

Barcelona and Atletico are currently trying to reach an agreement over the purchase clause amount. If that is finalised, the move could be finalised in a matter of days.

Interestingly, Casado is not the only player they are eyeing from a chief LaLiga rival. Atletico could try to sign a Real Madrid forward if Barca manage to prize Julian Alvarez away in the summer transfer window.