"It's my clear wish" - Barcelona star comments on his future amid reported bid from Manchester United
Barcelona star Fermin Lopez has seemingly ruled out a departure this summer amid reported interest from Manchester United. The Spanish attacker was a standout performer for the Catalans last season and appears to have caught the Red Devils' interest.
Lopez, 21, expressed his desire to stay at Camp Nou because he's playing for the club of his dreams. He told Mundo Deportivo:
"I'd be happy to sign 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."
Manchester United reportedly made a €30 million bid for Lopez that was promptly rejected by Barcelona. The one-cap Spain international has three years left on his contract with the La Liga giants.
Lopez posted 11 goals and one assist in 43 games across competitions last season. His versatility was impressive, as he played in central midfield, attacking midfield, and on the wing.
Barcelona views Lopez as one of their future megastars, and he's broken into the senior team alongside other starlets. Lamine Yamal, 16, and Pau Cubarsi, 17, are also highly regarded amid breakout seasons.
Manchester United are set for a summer rebuild, which is likely to include shaking up midfield and attacking. Erik ten Hag signed Mason Mount last summer, but he's endured injury issues. The likes of Christian Eriksen and Hannibal Mejbri face uncertain futures at Old Trafford.
Ronald Koeman thinks Frenkie de Jong will stay at Barcelona despite Manchester United's long-term interest
Frenkie de Jong is another Barcelona star linked with Manchester United. When he first arrived in July 2022, Ten Hag was eager to bring him to Old Trafford, but the Dutch playmaker wanted to stay at Camp Nou.
Ten Hag continues to court De Jong, 27, who endured an injury-ridden 2023-24 campaign. The Red Devils boss was reportedly prepared to sign the 54-cap Netherlands international whether he stayed at United or went elsewhere.
De Jong's injury troubles ruled him out of Euro 2024, and his national team boss, Ronald Koeman, regretted his absence. He also discussed his club situation and suggested he wants to stay in Catalonia (via Get Football News Spain):
"I have regularly talked to Frenkie about many things and I think he is happy at Barcelona and does not want to leave. The injuries have affected his level in recent months."
De Jong appeared 30 times across competitions last season, managing two goals. He has two years left on his contract but previously played under Ten Hag at Ajax at the start of his career