United preparing €40m bid for Atletico star who destroyed Barcelona, Ineos pushing to finalise early deal – report

Atletico Madrid handed Barcelona a 4-0 thrashing in the Copa del Rey, totally dismantling Hansi Flick’s high line. Barcelona were missing key attackers such as Raphinha and Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford. However, it was the midfield battle between the two sides that set the tone in Diego Simeone’s favour. The pairing of Marcos Llorente and Koke completely outmuscled and outclassed Barcelona’s midfield, forcing Flick to substitute Marc Casado in the 37th minute. Manchester United considering making offer for Marcos Llorente Llorente, in particular, was everywhere, quick to snuff out danger whenever Barcelona tried to progress through the middle. The 31-year-old made nine recoveries and engaged in ten ground duels. Furthermore, he created one chance for Atletico. According to Fichajes, Manchester United have set their sights on the Spanish midfielder, whose versatility and athleticism have greatly impressed their scouts.  It is claimed United are preparing a €40 million offer to try to convince Atletico to sanction Llorente’s transfer to Old Trafford in the summer. The 31-year-old has entered the final 18 months of his contract in the Spanish capital, making United’s reported offer tempting for Atletico. Marcos Llorente Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed Cards La Liga19-33– Champions League63-1– Copa del Rey3–1- Supercopa1––– Total29335– United supposedly believe that Llorente’s arrival would help them address their concerns in the middle of the park as well as out wide on the right side of the pitch, as he is capable of playing as a full-back.  Accordingly, Ineos intend to “finalise the deal” before any other European side enters the race for the Atletico star’s signature. Manchester United could lose their star to Real Madrid Meanwhile, United could face a battle to keep hold of their current first-choice right-back, Diogo Dalot. Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming Real Madrid are keen on signing Dalot as they are considering replacing Dani Carvajal. The figures at Carrington are happy with Dalot, who is enjoying a sort of resurgence under Michael Carrick. However, United are also aware that the 26-year-old Portuguese’s next contract would require a pay rise. Amid Ineos’ mission to trim United’s wage bill, Dalot’s potential demand and Real’s interest could put the Red Devils in a difficult position. Featured image Florencia Tan Jun via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Vishal Singh Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets, including North Star Network. Vishal has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Delhi University. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Vishal also manages a leading MUFC fan page, The Red Devils, on Facebook with over a million likes. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!