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Manchester United’s efforts to strengthen their midfield have continued to make headlines this summer, as INEOS look to enhance the squad’s depth in the centre of the park. The Red Devils concluded the 2025/26 Premier League season in third position, with Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro forming a dependable midfield partnership.

However, that combination has now been dismantled, with Casemiro departing Old Trafford to take on a new challenge. Reports from The Peoples Person suggest that the Brazilian has reached an agreement to join long-time rival Lionel Messi at Inter Miami.

In response, United have been working hard to fill the void left by Casemiro’s exit. While Atalanta’s Ederson is reportedly close to completing a move to the Theatre of Dreams, INEOS remain determined to make further additions, particularly as Manuel Ugarte’s situation remains uncertain.

It has now emerged that Manchester United attempted to sign Barcelona’s rising star Marc Bernal earlier in the year, but the club quickly received a definitive response.

According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, United were one of several clubs that enquired about Bernal during 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, while reports also pointed to interest from Al-Nassr. Over the past year, Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal all sought information during the most recent transfer window, but there was no movement. Marc Bernal is staying put.”

Bernal came through the youth academy at Camp Nou and made his first-team breakthrough during the 2024/25 season. Unfortunately, an ACL injury early in the campaign kept him sidelined for nearly a year.

The young Spaniard returned to full fitness last season and played a key role in Barcelona’s successful LaLiga and Supercopa de España campaigns. The 19-year-old ended the season with five goals and one assist from 33 appearances across all competitions, showcasing his impressive ability.

Bernal’s playing style has drawn comparisons to Barcelona legend Sergio Busquets. Even as interest from top European clubs grows, Bernal appears fully committed to continuing his development at Camp Nou—a stance that Barcelona seem eager to support.

Mundo Deportivo further notes that despite the growing attention surrounding Bernal’s future, Barcelona have no plans to sell their prized midfielder. The report explains: “Following his injury in Vallecas during the third match of the 2024–2025 LaLiga season, Barça moved swiftly to tie him down with a long-term contract.”

“A long-term contract extension was finalised, reinforcing the club’s trust in his potential. This decision highlights just how valuable he is to Barcelona. Consequently, the offers and interest received have not changed their stance.”

Bernal’s current contract runs until 2029, meaning the reigning LaLiga champions are under no pressure to consider any offers for him.

For Manchester United, Bernal represents exactly the kind of young, technically gifted midfielder they should be pursuing. Even though the Spaniard looks set to remain in Catalonia for now, INEOS’ interest reflects a promising shift in recruitment strategy that will no doubt please supporters.