United ready to launch €100m bid to sign incredible 22-yo star viewed as “ideal playmaker” for Carrick – report

Former Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim’s abrupt departure is unlikely to change the club’s transfer plans. Earlier this week, The Guardian reported that finance will be at Michael Carrick’s disposal to strengthen United “should a target for the long term become available.” United’s priority is to reinforce their midfield, and a report in Spain suggests they have set their sights on one of La Liga’s most promising midfielders. Manchester United willing to spend big on Pablo Barrios In December, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming Atletico Madrid midfielder Pablo Barrios attracted Manchester United’s interest during their scouting of Conor Gallagher. The 22-year-old midfield gem, whose technical ability and intensity out of possession have made him a Diego Simeone favourite, has emerged as a “very good fit for what United want long term.” Now, according to Fichajes, United have stepped up their efforts to sign Barrios. It is claimed United are “preparing a €100 million bid” for the Atletico gem, having identified him as “ideal playmaker” for their new project. There are question marks over the long term future of Portuguese maestro Bruno Fernandes.  Barrios has everything in his locker to shine at Manchester United The Spanish outlet adds that Thomas Tuchel and Roberto De Zerbi are high on United’s list of managerial options.  It is believed both Tuchel and De Zerbi would welcome the addition of a midfielder like Barrios at Old Trafford. Pablo Barrios Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed Cards La Liga181——— Champions League6—11— Copa del Rey2———— Total26111— Carrick, Tuchel and De Zerbi all like their teams to play out of the back and dominate possession. However, midfielders like Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro treat the ball like a hot potato. Meanwhile, Kobbie Mainoo lacks legs for the engine room. As such, irrespective of who holds the managerial reins at the Theatre of Dreams, United should be on the lookout for a profile like Barrios.  Featured image David Ramos 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!