Chelsea and Manchester United have lost three games apiece already in the Premier League, and though they are on varying ends of the standings, the English giants need better quality and reinforcements to challenge for the title.
El Nacional has reported that the Blues and the Red Devils are interested in bringing in a new number 10, and are set to battle it out for Barcelona star Fermin Lopez next year in an attempt to lure him to England.
According to the Catalan source, Chelsea and Man United are willing to pay close to £100 million for the Spaniard’s services. With Dani Olmo’s form in midfield lately, it would be difficult for the La Liga side to turn down such an offer for Lopez as they look to balance their finances.
United need Lopez more than Chelsea, Blues unlikely to enter bidding war
Regardless of which formation they play, Chelsea have enough offensive depth and Fermin Lopez, despite his ability to play in a deeper-lying role, is not the player they are likely to pursue as intently, particularly given his lofty price tag.
It is believed that the Londoners are keen on signing Alex Scott from Bournemouth in January and a better rounded profile is what Xabi Alonso needs in the dressing room. Thus, Manchester United may have an advantage in their bid to sign Lopez.
With doubts over Bruno Fernandes’ long-term future at the club, Fermin Lopez would be an excellent signing for them. He can create quality chances, contribute to the goals with late runs into the box and shoots effectively from distance.
The 23-year-old is also comfortable dropping deep to collect the ball and can break the lines intricately with his dribbling and pinpoint passing, whereas out of possession, he presses high up the pitch, man-marks well and cuts of passing lanes intelligently.
For Man United to be able to sign Fermin Lopez, it is vital that they play in the Champions League, however, and the way they fare in the remainder of the season will go a long way in determining if the Red Devils can sign a player of the Spaniard’s calibre.
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