Sophia
Barcelona are holding firm on their prized attacking midfielder, Fermín López, in the face of persistent interest from Chelsea. Despite ongoing financial pressures, the Catalan giants have reportedly slapped a colossal €90 million (£78 million, $105 million) price tag on the 22-year-old, a figure significantly higher than Chelsea’s reported offer and a clear statement of intent.
Chelsea’s Midfield Ambitions and the Search for a No. 10
Chelsea, fresh off a successful season that saw them clinch the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup, are continuing their squad regeneration. With Alejandro Garnacho poised to join, the Blues have also made no secret of their desire to acquire a new No. 10.
The departure of Christopher Nkunku to AC Milan opened up a slot that many anticipated Xavi Simons would fill. However, with Simons reportedly heading to Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea’s focus has sharply shifted to Fermín López in recent days, highlighting his growing reputation as a top-tier talent.
Barcelona’s Unwavering Stance
Barcelona vice-president Rafael Yuste unequivocally dismissed the notion of selling Fermín during Thursday’s Champions League draw, an event that ironically paired his club with Chelsea. “Fermín has a contract with the club and we are very happy with him, and therefore he is a Barça player,” Yuste told Movistar, signaling Barcelona’s strong desire to retain their asset.
Yuste further clarified that while he engaged with representatives from Chelsea and other clubs, transfer discussions were not on the agenda. “All of this is the work of the sporting directors, with Deco and Bojan,” he added. “The entire club is very happy with Fermín. I have been with the Chelsea emissaries and those from PSG, but no one asked me any market questions.”
A Sky-High Valuation: €90 Million and Beyond
A detailed report from Mundo Deportivo sheds more light on Barcelona’s firm stance. The club considers Fermín “untransferable,” unless an “irresistible offer” of €90 million is tabled. This figure represents a significant increase from the previously reported €70 million price tag and far exceeds Chelsea’s anticipated €50 million plus add-ons package.
Manager Hansi Flick and Sporting Director Deco are reportedly united in their opposition to selling Fermín, viewing it as a “sporting mistake” despite the club’s well-documented financial constraints. The player himself has also expressed a strong desire to remain at Camp Nou and further solidify his role within the team, even with Chelsea prepared to offer a substantially higher salary.
Chelsea’s Persistence: The Transfer Window Nears Its Close
Despite Barcelona’s resolute position, Chelsea are reportedly not giving up on their pursuit of Fermín. With the transfer window entering its final days, the Blues will need to significantly increase their offer if they hope to pry the promising midfielder away from Catalonia. The “discomfort” Fermín has reportedly felt due to the transfer uncertainty might be a factor Chelsea hopes to leverage, but Barcelona’s valuation remains a formidable hurdle.
The saga of Fermín López is a testament to the high stakes of modern football transfers, where player talent, club finances, and strategic ambitions collide. As the clock ticks down, all eyes will be on whether Chelsea can meet Barcelona’s audacious asking price or if Fermín will remain a cornerstone of the Barça midfield.
