Man United receive huge boost in the race to sign La Liga midfielder | OneFootball

Javi Guerra turns down Valencia renewal as United circle

Javi Guerra, the Valencia midfielder regarded as one of La Liga’s brightest young talents, has rejected the club’s first offer of a contract renewal. His representatives, after reviewing the proposal, made it clear they are expecting “something better” from the Mestalla side, according to Marca.

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This comes at a delicate moment for Valencia, who are attempting to lock down key homegrown players as part of a renewed identity under coach Carlos Corberán. But the rejection from Guerra, like that of Diego López and César Tárrega, raises wider concerns about the club’s ability to convince its brightest academy products to stay.

Guerra was promised a central role in the project moving forward. However, the numbers simply did not add up. His camp made that known directly to Valencia’s new CEO of Football, Ron Gourlay. “The offer is not sufficient,” was the message, despite the club’s plan to build around the midfielder.

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Valencia reportedly want at least €20 million in guaranteed income to part with Guerra, factoring in Villarreal’s 30 percent stake in his economic rights. That would push any realistic fee over €27 million. According to Marca, Manchester United are prepared to go as high as €25 million, suggesting room for compromise.

Pressure builds at Mestalla

Valencia’s struggle to retain talent is intensifying. Mosquera has already joined Arsenal, and the club’s attempts to renew three core players have resulted in three rejections. While Guerra’s situation remains unresolved, United’s quiet pursuit could soon move into formal negotiations.

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Should Valencia improve their offer? Perhaps. But the message from Guerra’s camp is clear: if a project is to be built around him, it must start with serious commitment.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Javi Guerra is the kind of midfielder that modern sides build around, technically sharp, tactically disciplined and capable of dictating the tempo. That United are “working in the shadows” to secure him speaks volumes. It feels like the kind of move Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s new football structure is designed to deliver.

This would not be a Galáctico-style signing, but rather one that reflects a broader shift in thinking. Guerra is young, with elite-level potential, and would offer flexibility in a midfield that still requires depth. His refusal to commit to Valencia adds urgency to the situation. If United can move quickly and get the fee close to €25 million, it could prove a bargain in the long run.

Supporters will note the pattern: a move away from established names to progressive, high-ceiling talent. Guerra fits that perfectly. For many fans, this is exactly the kind of smart, forward-thinking recruitment that has been missing from Old Trafford for years. If United get it over the line, it will be a strong signal of intent.