Can Manchester United replace Bruno Fernandes with a €100 million Barcelona star?

Every time the transfer window opens, Fermin Lopez's name pops up. By the time it closes, the Spaniard has reiterated his faith in FC Barcelona and returned to scoring goals!

The upcoming transfer window seems to be no different. However, it is Manchester United that is being linked to the attacking midfielder of the Spanish champions. The latest reports claim that the Premier League side is willing to shell out around €100 million (£86.5 million) this summer for the 22-year-old's services.

It was in January that Lopez signed a contract extension with the Catalan side, which extended his stay in La Liga until 2031. If Hansi Flick approves his sale, the offer could provide some much-needed financial impetus for Barcelona. Lopez joined Barca's academy from Real Betis in 2016 and has earned five national caps so far.

Since his senior debut in August 2023, the right-footed star has played a total of 127 games for Barcelona. In his tally of 31 goals and 27 assists, 12 goals and 16 assists have come from his 39 games so far this season. This sublime form could have garnered United's interest, as an overhaul using young players is taking place at Old Trafford.

With club captain Bruno Fernandes' future remaining uncertain, it is not far-fetched to think that Fermin Lopez could be his successor at Old Trafford. Barcelona offered him a new contract to make clear their intention of making him an integral part of their squad for the upcoming decade. Thus, United's interest in Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, and Bruno Guimarães should not be doubted, as these players are more defence-oriented than the Spaniard.

To meet their monetary needs, the La Liga side is more likely to let go of Jules Koundé, Alejandro Balde, and Dani Olmo than Lopez, reports said. Lopez himself is not looking for a switch, TEAMtalk said, adding that United's chances depend on making an impressive offer to Barca.