Chelsea and Manchester United set to battle it out for Barcelona star with £417 million release clause

Manchester United’s recruitment will be looking to sit down with their new manager, Mauricio Pochettino, as soon as possible to talk about who he wants to bring in this January to shape his team to his liking.

Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso may feel like he needs to make further additions to help strengthen his Chelsea squad, as they sit fifth in the Premier League but are 11 points off leaders Arsenal.

Now both sides have been linked to move for a Barcelona star, but they may be put off by his significant release clause.

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Chelsea and Manchester United set to battle it out for Barcelona star

The Blues and the Red Devils both may feel they will need to strengthen in attack, and they have identified a Barcelona star who has been in fine form this season.

Fermin Lopez has been pivotal for Hansi Flick’s side this season, playing in a role that links the attack and defence while chipping in with important goals.

The Spain international has scored eight goals and provided seven assists already this campaign as the Catalan side sit top of La Liga.

According to SPORT, Fermin’s impressive display against Atletico Madrid has led to an “explosion” of interest in the 23-year-old and the arrival of four offers.

The outlet has only named two of the clubs that are interested in bringing the 23-year-old to England, that being Chelsea and Man United.

Now, the pair will be put off by his release clause, which is valued at £417 million after signing a contract extension back in January that runs until 2031.

It has been reported that Chelsea have already enquired about making a move worth £66.75 million, but Barcelona made it clear they were not interested in selling him for any less than £83.4 million.

This figure is one that several clubs in the Premier League will be confident of being able to pay, hence why Barcelona is possibly touting the figure.

However, the Catalan club will have the final decision due to his release clause, with it unlikely any side will trigger it. If Fermin continues in the form he has started the campaign, there is no way Flick would consider allowing the club to sell him.

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Fermin Lopez’s view on moving to England

The Barcelona star addressed the rumours of him making the move to Old Trafford earlier in the month while talking to Mundo Deportivo.

Fermin said: “I don’t pay attention to this kind of news. I want to be at Barça as long as possible, and I hope to finish my career at this club.”

Now, every footballer is likely to say this to quell rumours and show their dedication to their club; however, with Fermin, this felt genuine.

Fermin came through La Masia after joining the club in 2016 from Real Betis, meaning he will have made a life in Barcelona for himself and his family.

So, while he has been linked with a move to England, this will only occur if he falls out of favour with Barcelona.