FC Barcelona have made it clear that Fermin Lopez will be unavailable on the market as Manchester United make an offer.
The 21-year old midfielder has been sensational at the Camp Nou so far. Meanwhile, the Red Devils are keen to rebuild and restore their glory days under INEOS. Moreover, United also confirmed Erik Ten Hag as their manager for the upcoming season and are in talks for an extension with the Dutchman.
The Manchester Reds are looking to rebuild from scratch and are in the race to sign many players. However, several players will also be leaving the Old Trafford. United will be extremely busy in the transfer market this summer. Especially, due to their horrendous campaign.
Manchester United would go on to endure their worst ever season in the Premier League securing an 8th place finish. Additionally, they would concede more than 80+ goals throughout this season. The Red Devils would also suffer a plethora of injuries with more than 65 cases of absenteeism. Furthermore, Erik Ten Hag would be strapped for options and hardly ever could field his best XI.
However, the Red Devils would go on to find some solace as they came out on top against Manchester City in the FA Cup final. Moreover, they would qualify for the Europa League ahead of Chelsea and Newcastle.
Manchester United offer £25 million for Fermin Lopez
Manchester United made an offer of £25 million to Barcelona for Fermin Lopez. However, Barcelona rejected United’s proposal and have no interest in selling Fermin.
Barcelona have financial problems of their own and could use cash as it comes. Regardless, the Blaugrana have no interest in parting ways with the 21-year old. Consequently, United may have to make an irrefusable or a special offer that Barcelona will have to consider.
But, the odds of that happening are simply against the Red Devils. Undoubtedly, any top club would benefit with a player like Fermin Lopez. Moreover, Lopez’s profile directly matches Ten Hag’s demands. United will have to go north of somewhere around £50 million to tempt Barcelona into selling.
However, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have made it clear that they won’t be making ridiculous offers or overpaying for any player. Henceforth, United may have to explore alternatives. Although, finding a young proficient midfielder like Fermin Lopez for a reasonable price wouldn’t be a piece of cake.
Why do the Red Devils want Fermin Lopez?
United’s defense was certainly an issue this season. However, the Red Devils weren’t any better going forward either. Manchester United would only score 57 goals in the league this campaign, 1 less than the number the conceded.
The Red Devils will have to reinvent their midfield and also make changes upfront. Of the current midfield, only Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo have really made a difference at the Theatre of Dreams. Mainoo was impressive throughout the campaign and earned a place for the Three Lions in the Euro 2024. Fernandes had the highest G/A for United this season.
However, top midfielders like Casemiro and Christian Eriksen have failed to shine at United. Casemiro was far from his lofty standards and Saudi is lurking around the Brazilian over a potential move. Eriksen would be out due to injury and Mainoo would replace him. The Dane may also be leaving due to reduced gametime. Additionally, Mason Mount move has simply not worked so far. The midfielder would be out most of the season and only scored 1 goal throughout the season.
21-year old Fermin Lopez could be a great alternative for the Red Devils. Fermin is technically very sound and houses plenty of potential. His versatility in attack as a midfielder and winger makes him even more valuable. Fermin ended the previous campaign with 42 appearances and 11 goals. He is also included in Spain’s Euro squad.
Undoubtedly, Fermin Lopez will be a great addition to Manchester United, provided Barcelona let him go. However, Fermin has opened up about his plans to stay at Camp Nou for the forthcoming years. His move to United seems more and more unlikely with time.
For more sports updates, make sure to follow us on:
