Bharath Rammr
Manchester United have reportedly made it a priority to sign a midfielder in the summer. Concerns about the longevity of Michael Carrick and the departure of players like Morgan Schneiderlin and Bastian Schweinsteiger is understood to be one of the reasons. United have been linked with big money moves for top midfielders across European football. While most of the transfer targets are being courted by a number of other clubs, United have silently been making moves on Espanyol David Lopez. The 27-year-old has been a key member of the Espanyol team that may be set for a European spot next season.
The incredible home form has seen the club make significant inroads in the race for the La Liga top six places, which is currently occupied by Real Sociedad and Villarreal. Yet, Espanyol are confident that the remaining seven matches of the tournament will be in their favour. Failure to qualify for European football will result in the club being unable to retain some of the best players and this includes Lopez.
The 27-year-old midfielder is reported to have a £34 million release clause in his contract. A club like United will have no trouble in paying this sum of money for a midfielder, who will be able to offer at least five years of service at the top of the game. The club are linked with a move for Monaco midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko, but they face stiff competition from a number of other clubs for the signature of the 22-year-old. Given a chance, the Monaco midfielder would be the first choice option for United. He is also expected to cost in the region of £ 35 million.
However, it is believed that United are seeing the positives in David Lopez over Bakayoko. Even though Lopez has a £ 34 million release clause in his contract, it is believed that the club would be interested in discussing terms at a much lower price. This will result in substantial savings in transfer funds, especially with United being strong in numbers in the middle of the park with the likes of Paul Pogba and Marouane Fellaini.
Manchester United scout Toni Lima is understood to have been the first name to suggest Lopez to Jose Mourinho. However, the midfielder appears to have caught the attention of the scout when he was visiting Espanyol games in order to follow the progress of left back Aaron Martin. A defensive midfielder by trade, Lopez has featured in 29 games. He has contributed three goals and two assists in these league matches. Even though he arrived at Espanyol only in the summer, the club may be prepared to let go if they receive a good offer.
