Manchester United have been informed that Barcelona’s Marc Bernal is not interested in a move to Old Trafford this summer, according to a report in Mundo Deportivo. The 19-year-old central midfielder has been linked with several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal and Chelsea, but appears committed to his development at the Camp Nou.
Barcelona are currently navigating financial challenges, leading to speculation about the potential sale of young talents like Bernal, Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, Gavi, and Alejandro Balde. However, the club is keen to retain Bernal, who has demonstrated significant promise after recovering from an ACL tear. He scored five goals in 33 senior appearances across all competitions last season.
Bernal’s current contract includes a substantial €500m (£431m) release clause, reflecting Barcelona’s determination to keep him. The club recently rejected a €30m (£26m) bid from Galatasaray for the player in January, further illustrating their stance. Despite interest from Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, who offered a considerable wage increase, Bernal has expressed ‘absolute loyalty’ to Barcelona and has turned down approaches from United and Arsenal.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are intensifying their pursuit of West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes. Journalist Matteo Morretto reports that the club is prepared to improve their contractual offer to Fernandes in an attempt to persuade him to choose United over Tottenham Hotspur, who are also heavily interested. United are planning direct talks with West Ham to negotiate a potential deal.
Separately, Tottenham are considering a move for Marcus Rashford after Barcelona declined their option to sign him permanently. However, Rashford is reportedly uninterested in joining Roberto De Zerbi’s side and prefers a return to Barcelona, although a loan deal is the only option currently on the table from the Spanish club. United may have to lower their £40m asking price to £25m to facilitate a sale.
