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Barcelona boss Hansi Flick voiced confidence that midfielder Fermin Lopez will stay at the club despite mounting speculations, linking him to Chelsea. Spanish reports have suggested that the 22-year-old, who rose through Barça’s academy before making his senior debut in the 2023-24 season, is weighing up a possible exit. Chelsea has reportedly held direct discussions with his representatives, signaling their clear interest. Barcelona, meanwhile, have stood firm on their stance, insisting Fermin is not for sale and have set a €90 million price tag on the player.
While speaking at a news conference, Flick mentioned, “I spoke with him, I am convinced that he will stay, but in the end I don’t know what happens. We have to wait — I am really happy when the market is closed." “I shared my opinion with him, but it’s a private matter. Players sometimes have different thoughts and are influenced by people around them, who might know more than we do. In the end, it’s a big business; I have to focus on my team, and I am really happy Fermin plays for Barca," he continued.
Chelsea puts forth €40 million offer for Fermin Lopex: Reports
Although Barca has confirmed the stay of Lopez, Chelsea has still tabled a offer of €40 million to buy Fermin. Chelsea has submitted their offer to Barcelona shortly after wrapping up their Premier League clash with Fulham, which they won. With the proposal now on the table, the Blues await a response from the Catalan giants. However, given that the bid falls well short of Barcelona’s valuation of the youngster, the La Liga champions are widely expected to reject it. According to sports journalist Fabrizio Romano, the only way Chelsea will get this player is only when he decides to leave the club by own.
Last season, Lopez scored eight goals across 46 appearances, helping Barcelona to attain triumph. Ahead of Sunday’s La Liga clash with Rayo Vallecano, the Catalans suffered a blow as Gavi was forced to withdraw from the squad with knee discomfort. Meanwhile, coach Hansi Flick confirmed that the midfielder, who will also sit out of Spain’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers, could be back in action when Barcelona face Valencia in mid-September.
