Manchester United could be set to battle Chelsea for the signature of Barcelona star Fermin Lopez as the transfer window edges towards deadline day.

According to reports, Chelsea have identified the 22-year-old midfielder as a key target, with reports in Spain suggesting an opening bid of around €50m (£43.2m) is being prepared.

However, Barcelona sporting director Deco is reportedly unwilling to sanction a sale for less than €70m (£60.4m).

United’s interest in Fermin dates back to earlier in the window, and sources in Spain claim the club’s admiration for the player remains strong.

Manager Ruben Amorim is understood to be keen on adding the young midfielder as part of his squad rebuild.

While Chelsea have long been front-runners, United could emerge as serious contenders in the final days of the market as they look to strengthen midfield options and offload fringe players.

Barcelona’s Transfer Stance

Barcelona are open to selling Fermin, but only at their valuation. The La Liga champions are also juggling transfer priorities, with talks for Alejandro Garnacho and Xavi Simons reportedly paused as they focus on potential outgoings.

United’s Transfer Clear-Out

Manchester United are simultaneously working to move on several unwanted players. Both Antony and Rasmus Højlund are in talks over possible exits — either permanent transfers or loan-to-buy deals — as Amorim looks to reshape his squad.

With Chelsea pushing to strike a deal and United weighing up a late move, the race for Fermin Lopez could become one of the most intriguing transfer sagas as the summer window draws to a close.