Man Utd stun Chelsea with talks over €174m double signing

Manchester United have reportedly enquired about Barcelona's Fermin Lopez and Atletico Madrid's Pablo Barrios, both of whom have also been targeted by Chelsea. According to transfer insider Matteo Moretto, United held meetings while visiting Madrid for a Champions League match to sound out the availability of the two midfielders. Moretto noted that while enquiries were made, active negotiations have not taken place between the clubs.

Permanent transfers for both players appear highly unlikely due to their importance to their respective clubs and their combined estimated transfer value of €173.5 million. Fermin holds an estimated value of €116.5 million, while Barrios is valued at €57 million. The report notes that Manchester United face more urgent squad priorities elsewhere, making major bids improbable.