The 23-year-old has scored five goals for Barcelona this season. Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea are also reported to admire the attacking midfielder, who has become an increasingly important contributor in the final third.
His form has come after he committed his future to the Catalan club with a new contract earlier this year, which runs until 2031.
López is valued at around £70 million, making any deal a substantial commitment. The Daily Mail reports that the club have considered his availability, but there is no indication that formal negotiations have begun with Barcelona.
Manchester United’s interest comes as manager Michael Carrick assesses how to improve his attacking options. Benjamin Sesko is facing a spell on the sidelines with a shin injury and is feared to be unavailable until at least January, leaving the club short of a recognised centre-forward.
López is not a direct replacement for the Slovenian striker, operating in an attacking midfield role rather than as a conventional number nine. His ability to contribute goals from deeper positions could nevertheless appeal to a United side looking for more threat and creativity.
The Spain international’s versatility also offers the option of operating across the attacking midfield line, rather than being restricted to one central role.
The club have also been linked with Leeds United forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin, although a move for the England international is considered difficult because of the rivalry between the two clubs. United previously assessed the striker during his final season at Everton but did not pursue a transfer.
Calvert-Lewin joined Leeds on a free transfer in the summer of 2025 after an injury-affected spell at Everton. He has since scored 20 goals in 49 appearances for the club, including five in 10 matches at the start of the current campaign, and is reportedly discussing a new contract at Elland Road.
United are also expected to consider defensive reinforcements in January if funds are available, leaving the club with several competing priorities.
For now, the Barcelona midfielder is one name under consideration rather than an advanced transfer target. His valuation, his importance to Barcelona and United’s competing needs mean there is considerable work to do before the reported interest could develop into a formal bid.