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With it still being early doors in this summer’s transfer window, it’s no surprise that despite all the speculation around potential transfers, United are yet to make a signing to the first team.
Silva Mexes and James Overy have both been signed to United’s academy, however all bids for senior players have been rejected so far.
Benfica’s Joao Neves has been a massive target for the Red Devils, with a €60 million initial bid being rejected by the Portuguese club, holding out for offers over the €100 million mark.
Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite has also been a major target to redesign the defensive line, with personal terms agreed for the Englishman. Much like with Neves, the initial bid was rejected with £35 million not being enough for the Toffees, with the Premier League side wanting in excess of £70 million.
Two bids have gone out to Spanish side Barcelona for Vitor Roque and Fermin Lopez, with both not being good enough for the European giants, with Roque’s offer of £29.6 million being significantly less than the £50 million they’re looking for, and Lopez’s €30 million being easily laughable for Barca’s homegrown talent that they see as unsellable.
Now, United’s pursuit of Lopez has been dealt another blow, with Manchester Evening News reporting that the Spanish midfielder does not want to leave Barcelona.
New Barcelona boss Hansi Flick is reported to be seeing Lopez as a key part of his squad going forwards, both for immediate success and the future of the club.
In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Lopez discussed a potential extension of his contract which is currently due to expire in 2027, saying “I’d be happy to sign a new deal at Barca, this club is my dream since I was a kid. I hope to stay at Barcelona for many years, it’s my clear wish.”
These comments from the 21-year-old could mark a significant and potentially fatal blow in United’s chase of the young star, forcing the Red Devils to look at other options.
Lopez is currently in Germany with the Spanish national team competing in the European Championships where Spain’s opening game saw them defeat Croatia 3-0, however unfortunately Lopez is yet to make a showing.
