Barcelona have dealt a blow to Manchester United’s hopes of signing their prolific forward Fermin Lopez.
The Red Devils had hoped to sign the prolific attacking midfielder to boost the club’s midfielder next season.
The move to poach Lopez to Old Trafford was reportedly orchestrated by Erik ten Hag as the Dutchman prepared to avoid the pitfalls of last season.
The former Ajax boss had slipped into a tumultuous campaign, missing key first-team players regularly due to injuries, hence the move to bolster and beef up the squad ahead of the next campaign with requisite signings.
Also, some exits are expected in the Man United midfield. Real Madrid legend, Casemiro, including Christian Eriksen are all linked to a move away from the club this summer. So, Erik ten Hag has been in search of a midfielder to fill the imminent void with Lopez emerging as a top target.
The 21-year-old Spanish international, who is away with Luis de la Fuente’s side at Euro 2024, impressed with Barcelona last season having made 31 La Liga appearances and notching eight goals in the process.
The midfielder has the versatility to play on the wing and as a number 10, with plenty of praise afforded his technical and creative abilities.
Barcelona reject Manchester United offer for Fermin Lopez
According to Spanish news outlet Sport, United have approached Barcelona to try and secure the signature of the 21-year-old midfielder, with a bid of £25million tabled for the Spanish international. But the overture was reportedly rejected, with the Catalan giants harbouring no intentions of parting ways with the playmaker unless an “irrefutable” bid is offered.
Fermin Lopez made 31 La Liga appearances for Barcelona last season and is reportedly optimistic of his future at the club amidst United’s interest. Despite the change of hands in the Barcelona dugout, Fermin Lopez is considered as a player for Barcelona’s future alongside Lamine Jamal, Pedri, and Gavi.
While he was given his break under former Barcelona boss Xavi Hernández, new manager Hansi Flick reportedly has plans in place for the midfielder next season, while the club view him as an integral part of their short- and long-term plans.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are expected to either drop out of the move for the youngster or tempt the La Liga outfit with an improved offer.
Fermin Lopez
Fermin Lopez is a 21-year-old Spanish footballer, playing for LA Liga club Barcelona and Spain national team. Lopez graduated from Barcelona Academy, La Masia, in 2022 and has been phenomenal for the La Liga giants since his breakout season.
He was first drafted into Barcelona reserve team in 2022 where he made one appearance before being loaned to Linares that same year. At Linares, Lopez shone bright, making 37 appearances for the club, and scoring 12 goals. He broke into Barcelona first team in 2023 after his impressive loan shit with Linares. He has struck 8 times for the club.
The youngster also has a promising international career with Spain’s national team, having made his debut in 2023. He is part of La Roja’s Euro 2024 squad. With Hansi Flick set to begin proceedings as Barcelona manager, Lopez is expected to play a great role in the new dispensation.
