Mainoo edges closer to Man Utd exit as Arsenal prepare 'tempting offer'

Cameron Smith

31 Mar 2025 15:00 BST
3 min read

Arsenal are reportedly preparing a “tempting offer” for Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado, which could indirectly impact Kobbie Mainoo’s future at Manchester United.

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Casado, 21, has emerged as a key player at Camp Nou this campaign and his form has led to significant rumours of a summer exit amid interest from multiple clubs across Europe.

Current ETV

Marc Casadó

DM, M (C)

Barcelona

Marc Casadó

DM, M (C)

Barcelona

ETV Range

€31.1M - €38M

Chelsea are known admirers of the Barcelona star, as they continue their pursuit of the best young talents in world football, while Arsenal have now joined the race to acquire his signature, according to El Nacional.

The Spanish publication claim that Arsenal and Chelsea are both “willing to make tempting offers” for Casado as they believe he is the “perfect fit” for the Premier League.

Casado’s game time has reduced following Frenkie de Jong’s return to full fitness and a summer exit is reportedly on the cards, with Arsenal open to submitting an offer in the region of €35-40 million.

Kobbie Mainoo to leave Man Utd?

Arsenal’s interest in Casado could cause a transfer domino effect that results in the aforementioned Mainoo leaving Man Utd.

The Gunners are long-term admirers of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi and they are reportedly expected to sign the Spain international this summer.

However, Arsenal are unlikely to purchase both Casado and Zubimendi, meaning the latter could become available for other clubs across Europe if Mikel Arteta’s side opt to finalise an agreement with the Barcelona star.

Man Utd have been tracking Zubimendi for a while and would likely pounce if Arsenal decide against signing him this summer. But, funds are limited at Old Trafford and the Red Devils may be forced to offload Chelsea target Mainoo if they want to add Zubimendi to Ruben Amorim’s first-team squad.

As a result, Arsenal could trigger a major transfer domino that sees Casado move to north London, Zubimendi join Man Utd and Mainoo potentially sign for Chelsea.