Gavi rejects Manchester United move to stay at Barcelona

Gavi has turned down the possibility of joining Manchester United and remains determined to continue his career at Barcelona, despite the Premier League club’s interest in signing him during the current summer transfer window.

According to the Mirror, Manchester United manager Michael Carrick had identified the 22-year-old Spain midfielder as a target to strengthen his squad. United were reportedly prepared to meet Barcelona’s asking price of £35m for the player.

However, Gavi has made clear that he does not want to leave Barcelona and intends to remain with the Spanish club for next season.

His decision is a setback for Manchester United, who are still looking to add a third central midfielder this summer. The club have already signed Youri Tielemans and Andre Santos in deals worth a combined £85m.

Gavi joined Barcelona’s academy at the age of 11 and progressed through the club’s youth system before establishing himself in the first team. Since making his La Liga debut in 2021, he has played 119 league matches for the club.

The midfielder missed a significant part of last season after suffering a serious knee injury. He returned to full fitness and regained his form in March, earning a place in Spain’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Gavi featured in two matches during the tournament but was an unused substitute in the final, when Spain beat Argentina 1-0 in New York.

He remains under contract with Barcelona until June 2030, while manager Hansi Flick is also keen for him to stay at the club.

Manchester United must now turn their attention to alternative midfield targets after Gavi closed the door on a move to Old Trafford. Carrick’s side had hoped to add further depth in the centre of the pitch after the arrivals of Tielemans and Santos.

United have also completed the free-transfer signing of goalkeeper Karl Darlow. The club have seen a number of players leave during the summer, including Rasmus Højlund and Casemiro, as well as goalkeepers Radek Vitek and Altay Bayindir.

Gavi’s decision leaves Barcelona in a strong position as they prepare for the new campaign. His long-term contract, his importance to the squad and Flick’s desire to retain him mean United are unlikely to be able to revive their approach without a significant change in the player’s stance.