Manchester United’s alleged pursuit of Marc Bernal is expected to be unsuccessful with the midfielder in line to sign a new contract at Barcelona imminently.

United’s recruitment team strengthened the club’s senior as well as Under-21s side’s midfield by signing Manuel Ugarte and Sékou Koné this summer.

However, reports in Spain suggest the two signings did not stop the Red Devils from scouring the market for more midfielders.

According to ESPN’s Moises Llorens, United set their sights on Bernal, who is tied to the Catalan outfit until the summer of 2026. His current contract also includes a release clause believed to be worth €20 million.

It is added the Mancunian giants as well as Newcastle United showed interest in paying his release clause.

The 17-year-old is the latest La Masia talent to attract positive headlines in Spain, having pushed his way into Hansi Flick’s starting lineup after impressing the German manager during pre-season.

The talented defensive midfielder, admired for his technical security and passing range in the build-up, started all three of Barca’s opening La Liga games this season.

Unfortunately, the Spaniard has been sidelined for a lengthy period after suffering an injury late against Rayo Vallecano in August. It seems despite the setback, Bernal is not short of suitors.

However, Llorens adds the Blaugrana are set to make his renewal official this week, securing his long-term future amid interest from the Premier League sides.

Bernal is not the only Barca midfielder who has been linked with United lately.

Last week, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming the Old Trafford outfit are keeping a close eye on the situation of Gavi. The Spain international is edging closer to returning to action after nearly 10 months.

It would be interesting to see how the returning Gavi will fit into the plans of Flick, who is blessed with a number of talented players in the middle of the park. This, combined with Barcelona’s precarious financial situation has the potential to give the likes of United more encouragement to test their resolve in future transfer windows.

Feature image Eric Bernal via Getty Images

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