Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez has reportedly rejected a lucrative transfer offer from Manchester United during the January window.
Despite the Premier League giants offering to double his wages, the 21-year-old showed no interest in leaving the Catalan club.
Both United and Aston Villa were willing to put €70 million (£58.3 million) on the table for the talented Spaniard, according to Sport.
However, Lopez made it clear that he remains fully committed to Barcelona, refusing to even entertain discussions with either English club. His current weekly wage is estimated at €76,923 (£64,000), a figure United and Villa were prepared to significantly increase.
Having come through Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, Lopez has established himself as a key player. So far, he has made 66 appearances, scoring 15 goals and providing six assists. His performances have earned praise from manager Hansi Flick, particularly after helping Barcelona lift the Supercopa de España last month.
With the club trailing La Liga leaders Real Madrid by five points but holding a game in hand, Lopez remains focused on securing silverware with Barcelona this season.
United have been long-time admirers of Lopez, as reported by the Daily Mail. The club is looking to bolster its midfield, with Christian Eriksen expected to depart in the summer and Casemiro no longer a guaranteed starter. Lopez’s youth, talent, and versatility made him an attractive target for the Red Devils.
With Lopez off the table, United may turn their attention to other midfield reinforcements. Reports suggest that Juventus could offer Douglas Luiz in a potential swap deal involving Joshua Zirkzee.
Luiz, 26, only joined Juventus from Aston Villa last summer in a €50 million (£42.35 million) transfer. Previously on Manchester City’s books, he moved to Villa due to work permit complications. If United are willing to part ways with Zirkzee, Luiz could be a viable addition to their midfield.