Manchester United transfer target makes feelings clear after £25m offer tabled

Remaining at Barcelona is the "clear wish" of Manchester United target Fermin Lopez, a revelation that comes as a major blow in the Red Devils ongoing pursuit of the midfielder.

United tabled an offer of £25million for Lopez recently but saw their offer duly rejected by Barcelona. The Catalan giants told United that any possibility of speaking with the highly-rated 21-year-old would require an "irrefutable" bid, adding that their overture of £25million would require significant improvement.

Lopez cut himself an appealing prospect with Barcelona this season, playing 31 matches and scoring eight goals in an impressive break-out season. The midfielder has the versatility to play on the wing and as a No 10, with plenty of praise afforded to his technical and creative abilities.

While Lopez was given his break under former Barcelona boss Xavi Hernández, new manager Hansi Flick reportedly has plans in place for the midfielder next season, while the club view him as an integral part of their short and long-term plans.

The Spanish international, who is currently away with Luis de la Fuente's national side at Euro 2024, has called Barcelona home since he was young and has made it clear he has no intention of departing anytime soon.

Speaking to Mundo Deportivo about a potential contract extension with the Spanish side, Lopez said: “I’d be happy to sign new deal at Barça, this club is my dream since I was a kid. I hope to stay at Barcelona for many years, it’s my clear wish."

For United, the comments from Lopez could mark another blow in their pursuit of the midfield starlet.

With the managerial saga ensconcing manager Erik ten Hag, United can now push on with their summer transfer plans. The Red Devils are set for a busy summer, with recruitment needed across the park.

Midfield is one area in particular in need of bolstering. Casemiro, Christian Eriksen and Bruno Fernandes have all been linked with moves away from the Theatre of Dreams, while Sofyan Amrabat’s loan deal is unlikely to be made permanent, though the Moroccan international has insisted he could remain at Old Trafford.

United were eyeing Lopez as a viable recruitment option to keep in line with their approach of signing young talent. Lopez was believed to have a skillset that would complement the qualities of 19-year-old England midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, who also impressed in his respective breakthrough season.

However, United will now need to consider the pros and cons of submitting a second bid to match Barcelona's evaluation, or if attention must be turned elsewhere.