United “determined to sign” ideal Bruno Fernandes replacement, prepared to submit €100m offer – report

Manchester United are prepared to pay a massive fee to sign Barcelona talent Fermin Lopez, as per Fichajes.

Lopez enjoyed a breakthrough campaign last season, establishing himself as a key part of Xavi’s Barca squad. He made 42 appearances under the club legend and got on the scoresheet 11 times across all competitions.

The 21-year-old had an even better summer, as he was part of Spain’s Euros as well as Olympics Gold medal winning squad. The young Spaniard has started this season strongly too, having already been directly involved in three goals in all competitions under Hansi Flick.

United appear to be keen on signing the midfielder, who has earned plenty of plaudits for his ability to find space in the final third and score from near the edge of the box.

According to Fichajes, United are “determined to sign” Lopez, who they see as “the ideal replacement” for their skipper Bruno Fernandes “in the medium term.”

Ruben Amorim’s arrival is likely to start another wave of big spending at Old Trafford, as INEOS are expected back their new head coach by giving him suitable players to reshape the United squad as per his ideas.

The Spanish outlet claim that the Premier League giants are “planning a strong investment” in the next summer transfer window.

Lopez appears to be top of their transfer wish-list as it is claimed United are “willing to do everything” they can to secure his services.

They are allegedly prepared to offer a fee of around €100m to test Barca’s resolve. 

The La Masia product is tied to Barca until 2029 and his contract includes a release clause worth €500m.

Still, it is claimed that United are “confident” that their offer will be enough to negotiate with the La Liga leaders as well as attract the player to England.

As promising as Lopez is, it is tough to see INEOS offer such a massive fee for one player, amid FFP concerns, let alone for the attacking midfielder who might not even be ready to start over Fernandes for at least a couple of seasons. As such, it is best to take the report with a pinch of salt.