Barcelona make ‘first step’ towards Bruno Fernandes, Manchester United swap deal now possible

Barcelona are currently assessing the first steps towards approaching Manchester United for Bruno Fernandes this summer, according to reports from Spain.

On Monday afternoon, revelations emerged that conveyed a stark message to numerous Manchester United players: Sir Jim Ratcliffe‘s team is willing to consider reasonable offers for every member of Erik ten Hag’s squad this summer, with just three exceptions.

Alejandro Garnacho, Kobbie Mainoo, and Rasmus Højlund are the exclusive trio deemed untouchable at Carrington. INEOS, the club’s ownership, is steadfast in its refusal to entertain any offers for these players, regardless of the amount.

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Earlier reports indicated that United have approximately £100 million available for the upcoming transfer window before they resort to generating funds through player sales. However, according to the latest reports, a significant exodus from the squad might be on the horizon.

A recent article from The Telegraph revealed that Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his team have now adopted an “ultra-flexible approach,” signalling their readiness to entertain offers for nearly the entire squad this summer.

Fernandes and Barcelona

One player who is not on the list of “untouchables” is club captain Bruno Fernandes, which means he is, in theory, available for transfer at the right price.

In 2020, Barcelona showed great interest in Fernandes just before United eventually signed him on the final day of January, and according to Spanish outlet El Nacional, they are once again taking their chances on the player.

According to the report, “first contacts have been made” to find out how much it would cost to bring Fernandes to La Liga, signifying the first steps of any transfer. Last week, the BBC reported that it would take a “mega offer” to prise him out of Old Trafford.

It was then further explained that Xavi “would welcome him” as Fernandes is a player that the Spaniard very much appreciates.

A possible swap deal?

Furthermore, the report claims that United would be willing to include Bruno Fernandes in a deal for 26-year-old midfielder Frenkie De Jong.

Since the summer of 2022, De Jong has been of deep interest to United, and in particular, Erik ten Hag. The midfielder is meant to be part of the Dutch manager’s rebuilding of Old Trafford.

Although there may be an element of truth to this claim, it is unlikely that any swap deal would be a straight one, with Fernandes keen to stay at Old Trafford for the near future.