Marc Bernal has already responded to Manchester United’s interest | OneFootball

Manchester United’s pursuit of midfield reinforcements has made the news this summer, but INEOS have been trying to strengthen the position for some time. The Red Devils finished the 2025/26 campaign in third place in the Premier League table, relying on the midfield pairing of Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro.

However, that partnership has been broken this summer, with the Brazilian leaving Old Trafford in search of a new challenge. A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person suggests that he has agreed to team up with long-term rival Lionel Messi at Inter Miami.

United, meanwhile, are scrambling to fill his boots. While Atalanta midfielder Ederson has reportedly agreed to move to the Theatre of Dreams, INEOS remain keen on further additions, especially with Manuel Ugarte’s future also uncertain.

It now appears that they already tried to sign Barcelona prodigy Marc Bernal earlier this year and received a swift response.

United wanted Bernal in January

According to Mundo Deportivo, United were among the clubs that enquired about Bernal in the last transfer window. The report states: “Various European clubs have been enquiring about his contractual situation, some more persistently than others.”

“Roma were among the first to be mentioned, whilst reports also emerged of interest from Al-Nassr. This was over the past year. During the most recent transfer window, Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal once again sought information, but there was nothing to be done. Marc Bernal is staying put.”

Bernal rose through the ranks at Camp Nou and initially broke into the first team in the 2024/25 season. However, he suffered an unfortunate ACL injury at the beginning of the campaign that sidelined him for almost a year.

The Spaniard returned to full fitness last season and went on to play an important role in the Catalans’ LaLiga and Supercopa de Espana triumphs. The 19 year old finished the campaign with five goals and one assist in 33 appearances in all competitions, highlighting his immense quality.

Marc Bernal Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt.

The Spaniard’s playing style has seen him compared to legendary Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets. While suitors continue to monitor his development, it appears that Bernal is determined to stay at Camp Nou, and he is likely to be granted his wish as well.

Barcelona want Bernal stay

Mundo Deportivo adds that despite rising interest in Bernal’s signature, Barcelona have no desire to part ways with their prized asset. The report concludes: “Following his injury in Vallecas, during the third match of the 2024–2025 LaLiga season, Barça decided to secure him on a long-term contract.”

“A long-term contract extension was agreed, underlining the club’s commitment to his future. This figure demonstrates just how important he is to Barcelona. For all these reasons, the offers and interest received have not altered their plans.”

Bernal is under contract at Camp Nou until 2029, so the LaLiga champions are under no pressure to let him go.

Final Thoughts

Bernal is exactly the kind of young and talented footballer United need to target. While the Spaniard appears unlikely to leave Barcelona any time soon, INEOS’ desire to prise him away shows a shift in transfer strategy that will please fans.

Feature image Eric Bernal via Getty Images

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