Barcelona keep Lopez as United eye new No 10 amid Fernandes doubts

Fabrizio Romano confirmed Barcelona will retain attacker Fermin Lopez after Manchester United launched an enquiry, while United contemplate a new No 10 if Bruno Fernandes’ form continues to dip.

United must decide whether to offer Fernandes, now 32 and among the club’s highest earners, a new contract; he is out of contract at season’s end but has a 12‑month extension option.

Matteo Morreto reported that United could replace the Portuguese midfielder with Lopez, the 23‑year‑old who has already contributed five goals and four assists from the No 10 role this season.

Morreto quoted a source saying United have enquired about both Lopez and Atletico Madrid’s Pablo Barrios, stressing there is no negotiation, merely an enquiry.

A separate CaughtOffside report claimed Barcelona would demand €100 million (£84 million) before approving a sale.

Romano later stated in a video on X that Lopez is “absolutely untouchable for Barcelona”, adding the player is very happy after signing a new deal a few months ago and is crucial for the club’s present and future.

Romano also noted that club director Deco considers Lopez essential and that there is no Premier League move planned, confirming Lopez will stay at Barcelona.

Looking ahead, United’s immediate winter‑window priority is to sign a new striker, with Dominic Calvert‑Lewin targeted but expected to re‑sign at Leeds.

Nonetheless, a different 29‑year‑old Premier League striker could still arrive at Old Trafford, with his transfer already approved by United.