Newcastle United have been linked with a cut-price move for Barcelona youngster Marc Casado.

The Lowdown: Casado profiled

Casado is primarily a central midfielder but can also play in a holding role and is yet to make a senior first-team appearance at the Nou Camp.

He is out of contract with the Catalan giants in a matter of months and actually shares the same agent as Newcastle winger Ryan Fraser.

The Spaniard is just 18 years of age and captains Barcelona’s Under-19 side, but has already trained with the first team under Xavi Hernandez, an ideal mentor for a young, technical midfielder.

The Latest: Magpies interest

Sports Witness relayed a story from Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo on Wednesday regarding Casado.

They claimed that Newcastle, along with Crystal Palace are keeping tabs on the midfielder and are actually best placed to sign the player on a free transfer over the coming months, although Casado would need a work permit to make the move to England.

The Verdict: One for the future?

Even though The Magpies now have a big budget when it comes to transfers, it’s good to see that the club are still looking at shrewd deals for young talent.

Casado would more than likely be a signing for the future due to having no first-team experience, but landing Barcelona’s Under-19 captain on a free transfer feels like a move with a lot to gain and not a lot to lose.

It seems as if Amanda Staveley is looking to ensure the club operates smartly even with their newfound riches, so this could be a move to keep a close eye on over the coming months.

In other news: Newcastle now 'on brink' of deal with player Howe wanted at Bournemouth.