Manchester United are considering a major summer move for Atletico Madrid midfielder Pablo Barrios after reports in Spain claimed the club are prepared to table a €100million offer, according to Fichajes.
The 22-year-old has emerged as a serious option as United step up plans to reshape their midfield ahead of the next transfer window, with senior figures increasingly focused on adding greater control and technical quality to the side. Barrios is under contract with Atletico until 2030, but United are understood to believe that a significant bid could be enough to open discussions.
With broader decisions still pending over the club’s long-term sporting direction, any investment of this scale would be viewed internally as a foundational part of a wider rebuild rather than a standalone signing.
United weigh up €100m Barrios approach
Jason Wilcox and Sir Jim Ratcliffe
According to Fichajes, United are prepared to test Atletico Madrid’s resolve with a nine-figure offer for Pablo Barrios as recruitment planning intensifies.
United’s interest reflects mounting concerns over the balance of their midfield options. While recent recruitment has focused on physicality and defensive structure, there is a growing acceptance that the side lacks a midfielder capable of dictating tempo, progressing the ball cleanly and linking phases of play consistently.
Barrios has been closely monitored by United scouts, who are impressed by his composure in possession, awareness in tight spaces and ability to operate under pressure, with the article saying he also has 'exceptional vision'. The club believe those traits are increasingly essential to closing the gap on domestic and European rivals.
Although Atletico are not actively seeking to sell, United sources feel a bid in the region of €100million would at least force the Spanish club into conversations, particularly given the scale of the offer.
Contract situation and rebuild context at Old Trafford
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Atletico Madrid remain in a strong negotiating position, with Barrios tied down until the summer of 2030 and viewed as a key part of their long-term project. The midfielder has made 26 appearances in all competitions this season, registering one goal and one assist, while continuing to grow in influence within Diego Simeone’s system.
Despite his age, the Spain Under-21 international has shown notable tactical maturity, operating both as a deeper midfielder and in more advanced roles when required. United believe his versatility would offer flexibility as they plan for a new managerial era.
Michael Carrick remains in interim charge, but the club are continuing to assess long-term options, with figures such as Thomas Tuchel and Roberto De Zerbi previously linked.
United view Barrios as a potential cornerstone of their next rebuild, but whether Atletico can be persuaded to part with one of their prized assets remains the key uncertainty as the summer window approaches.
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