Man Utd willing to splurge £61m to sign 22yo midfielder, will double his salary

Manchester United could sign a new midfielder during the transfer window.

The Red Devils have primarily focused on bolstering their frontline this summer.

They have signed Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo alongside left-back Diego Leon.

A midfielder is one of the club’s next priorities, and Sport claim that United are willing to splash out £61 million to purchase Barcelona’s Fermín López.

There is a good understanding between the clubs after the initial loan transfer of Marcus Rashford.

López’s sale would help the Blaugrana return to the 1:1 rule and therefore register new signings. The club could also dream of adding another recruit.

The 22-year-old is not pushing for a move at the moment, but United are ready to convince him by doubling his wages, which stand at £67,000 per week.

United require a different profile of midfielder

López has been in and out of the starting XI at the Blaugrana. He managed 18 goal contributions last season despite playing only 2,000 minutes in 46 appearances.

The Spaniard operated from the number 10 and number eight positions for the Catalan giants. He caught the eye with his distribution, goals and ability to create chances.

Despite this, we would be surprised if United contemplate an offer. The club are already blessed with several creative midfielders, including Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount, Matheus Cunha and Kobbie Mainoo.

The primary concern for United has been in the holding midfield department. Casemiro is no longer in his prime and has struggled to cope with the higher intensity of the Premier League.

Manuel Ugarte arrived at the club from Sporting CP with a big reputation but had an average debut campaign. He was slow with his decision-making at times and gifted goals to the opposition.

United need an upgrade on the defensive midfield duo this summer rather than another creative midfielder. They need someone who can control proceedings in the centre of the park.

López does not appear the answer. He managed only 19 passes per game last term with an accuracy of 86 percent. He won only 40 percent of his duels, losing possession 7.5 times on average.

United need a marquee number six, such as Sporting CP’s Morten Hjulmand or Atalanta’s Ederson. Carlos Baleba would be a superb addition, but Brighton & Hove Albion could demand a substantial fee.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com, Sofascore.com & Capology.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .