Manchester United are reportedly ready to fork out £61million (€70m) to bring in Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez.
The Catalan giants are open to offers for a number of their players this summer as they try to generate funds in order to register new signings Marcus Rashford and goalkeeper Joan Garcia in their squad.
It’s thought that Fermin is one of the players at risk of being sold, with manager Hansi Flick no longer reliant on the 22-year-old in midfield.
The Spaniard, who made 28 appearances in LaLiga last season, is indeed likely to see his game-time slashed this term as Raphinha moves inside to accommodate Rashford on the left-wing.
But it’s thought that Man United are interested in offering Fermin an exit route, with Ruben Amorim and club officials ready to pay Barca’s £61m asking price, according to Catalan newspaper Sport.
The Red Devils will however likely face stiff competition for his signature, after Chelsea, Arsenal and a number of clubs in the Saudi Pro League also expressed an interest.
Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez
Barca need to generate funds in order to be able to register new recruit Marcus Rashford to their squad
Ruben Amorim and club officials are said to be willing to pay Barca’s £61m asking price for Fermin
Any deal for Fermin is expected to take place in ‘the coming weeks’ with the new seasons of both LaLiga and the Premier League now just around a corner.
United’s priority ahead of their first league game against Arsenal on August 16 is thought to be the acquisition of a striker.
After missing out on prime targets Liam Delap and later Viktor Gyokeres, the Red Devils turned their attention to Ollie Watkins and Benjamin Sesko.
They this week however focused their efforts on RB Leipzig’s Sesko, after reportedly being priced out of a move for their other option, the Aston Villa forward.
United however are embroiled in a two-horse race for the Slovenian’s signature with Newcastle, who are believed to have submitted their first bid for the striker on Friday.
Sesko is currently weighing up his options, according to reports, and is yet to decide whether he favours a move to Old Trafford or further north to St James’ Park.
Ruben Amorim’s maiden summer at the helm has so far seen United acquire Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbuemo in two deals totalling almost £140million.
It’s hoped the Premier League-proven wingers can strengthen a United frontline which has been devoid of goals, and confidence, in recent seasons.
United have strengthened so far this summer with the additions of Bryan Mbuemo and Matheus Cunha
Their priority as we near the start of the season is RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko
Rasmus Hojlund, who has actually somewhat impressed this pre-season, could leave the club this summer if Sesko comes through the door.
It’s thought RB Leipzig are showing a strong interest in securing his services, with the idea of Hojlund being used in a swap deal a genuine possibility.
Elsewhere, Amorim is said to be keen to improve his squad in both midfield and in-goal.
While no targets have been identified in the centre of the park, club officials reportedly enquired about the possibility of bringing Emi Martinez to Old Trafford earlier in the window.
Aston Villa however turned down the proposal.
