United, along with two Premier League rivals, are reportedly tracking a rising midfield talent
Last season, United had a horrible season, finishing in the 15th position, the worst they have ever finished in a league and ending the season without any trophies. With the new season coming up, strengthen the squad is clearly the biggest priority, now.
The forwards have been inconsistent and unreliable, and the midfield has lacked consistent quality, with only captain Bruno Fernandes showing any stand-out quality. United are still looking to sign an experienced midfielder from Barcelona whom they see can both help and replace Bruno long-term.
Since arriving from Sporting CP in 2020, Bruno Fernandes has been a driving force for Manchester United’s first team. Now 30, the Portuguese maestro remains a vital presence at Old Trafford and continues to play a central role under manager Ruben Amorim. Many argue he’s been United’s best player since the Sir Alex Ferguson era. Fresh off winning the Nations League, Fernandes is widely regarded as one of the world’s top midfielders and continues to attract interest from top clubs.
However, he turned down a lucrative move to Al Hilal and instead chose to fully commit to Amorim’s vision for the club ahead of the new Premier League season. Fernandes, who is under contract until 2027, will turn 31 during the 2025–26 campaign. Despite his age and some questions surrounding his long-term future, he showed no signs of decline last season, delivering outstanding numbers throughout.
United identify Fermin Lopez as the captain’s heir
According to Sport, Manchester United are actively monitoring the situation of Barcelona and Spain midfielder Fermin Lopez.
The Spanish outlet claims Lopez is expected to face stiff competition for minutes next season under new manager Hansi Flick. With Barcelona working to balance their finances—especially after signing Joan García from Espanyol and closing in on Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao—the club may be forced to offload players.
Fermin Lopez, viewed by some as a potential successor to Bruno Fernandes, has reportedly emerged as one of the players Barcelona’s sporting directors are considering selling to ease their financial strain.
Sport, further reports that Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United are all closely monitoring Fermin Lopez as uncertainty grows around his future at Barcelona.
The outlet also notes that financially dominant leagues like Saudi Arabia’s Pro League could make a move for the 22-year-old midfielder. However, despite being warmly welcomed there, Lopez is unlikely to consider such a move due to the league’s limited sporting appeal.
A graduate of Barcelona’s prestigious La Masia academy, Lopez remains under contract with the club until 2029 and has a staggering €500 million release clause in his deal.
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Reports indicate that Fermin Lopez would only leave Barcelona if an acceptable offer arrived that satisfies both player and club, however Barcelona remain adamant that they wouldn’t entertain any offers below his enormous buyout clause.
The Spanish midfielder has made it clear that he hopes to stay with the club for the long-run and is believed to be integral to Hansi Flick’s plans going forward. While a move to Manchester United would be improbable and perhaps unrealistic at this time, it should be noted that Lopez, who scored in that last El Clasico, is a player to keep an eye on. If the stars ever aligned, he could be the kind of player that could radically improve United’s struggling midfield.