Barcelona ‘working’ on deal to sign Man Utd defender

Barcelona are reportedly ‘working’ on a deal to sign Manchester United youngster Marc Jurado.

The 19-year-old, who played in the second half of Wednesday’s 2-0 pre-season win over Leeds United, has attracted interest from the Spanish champions, as per Barcelona podcast Que T'hi Jugues. The outlet claim Jurado is ‘negotiating’ a move to the club, and added a deal could be agreed for a lower fee but based on ‘cost-based objectives’.

The right-back joined United from Barcelona in 2020 and has impressed in the youth ranks, slowly rising up the age divisions and is now first choice in that position outside of the first-team squad. The Spaniard made 28 appearances for the Under-21 side last season and was an unused substitute in the Premier League victory over Nottingham Forest in April.

Jurado has been capped at underage level by Spain and is an attacking right-back. The teenager may well be involved again when United face Lyon in their second pre-season friendly on Wednesday, at Edinburgh's Murrayfield Stadium. Aaron Wan-Bissaka is likely to start on the right side of defence with Diogo Dalot not expected to be back in the squad after his late return to pre-season, meaning Jurado may be an option off the bench.

United have already allowed two young right-backs to leave this summer, with Ethan Laird joining Birmingham City in a permanent transfer and Charlie Wellens departing for free after his contract expired. Brandon Williams is another back-up option in that position, but he is expected to be sold this window to help fund incoming transfers.