As has been the case for years, Barcelona have a roster filled with promising young talent. Lamine Yamal is the most prominent example, but he’s not the only one. Among the gems in the Catalan side’s ranks, there’s one player who has reportedly caught the attention of Manchester United.
“Manchester United have shown direct interest in signing Fermin and are ready to submit a financial offer above €70 million,” reported Sport on Saturday, referring to 22-year-old midfielder Fermin Lopez.
Lopez played a significant role for Barcelona last season, appearing in 46 matches and recording 8 goals and 11 assists across La Liga, Copa del Rey, Supercopa de España, and the UEFA Champions League. However, he wasn’t always a first-choice option for coach Hansi Flick, as he rotated in and out of the lineup with players like Pedri, Gavi, and Dani Olmo.
Barcelona’s depth in midfield means his departure likely wouldn’t be a major sporting setback, while the more than $80 million fee could prove extremely useful to the club. “It would immediately solve all the financial issues related to the first team,” Sport added. “A transfer of this magnitude would allow Barça to register all their renewals, new signings, and even dream of one or two more additions.”
Barcelona star Fermin Lopez.
Still, there may be a major obstacle to making this deal happen: Fermin’s own wishes. “His camp communicated that there was interest from several clubs, but that the midfielder wants to stay at Barça no matter what… the academy product has already turned down multiple Premier League projects,” the Spanish outlet noted.
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Fermin Lopez’s contract at Barcelona
In October 2024, Barcelona agreed to extend Fermin Lopez’s contract for five years, through June 30, 2029. The deal included an expected salary increase reflective of his established role in the squad, as well as a release clause of €500 million (nearly $580 million).
As is often the case, Barcelona are not expecting to receive the full amount of the release clause, but it serves as a strong negotiating tool to protect the club’s interests. Ultimately, Fermin Lopez can only leave for a lower fee if the club agrees to the terms of the transfer.
Manchester United are spending big
The more than $80 million Manchester United are reportedly ready to pay for Fermin Lopez may seem like a massive sum, but it’s consistent with the club’s spending habits this summer. So far, the English side has spent approximately $170 million on new signings.
Their biggest move ahead of the 2025–26 season has been the acquisition of Bryan Mbeumo. The Cameroonian winger arrived from Brentford for $86.3 million. He was followed by Matheus Cunha, purchased from Wolverhampton for $83.6 million. The Red Devils also added Paraguayan defender Diego Leon for about $4 million.
