Barcelona have made a clear decision on midfielder Fermín López this summer, despite interest from the Premier League.
The 22-year-old started just 12 La Liga games in the 2024/25 season, but still managed to score six goals as a rotating player under Hansi Flick.
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This has led to speculation that he could leave the club before the 2025/26 season, with Chelsea linked with him.
After Chelsea secured a dramatic qualification for the Champions League, new hire Enzo Maresca is looking to strengthen the midfield.
Chelsea made a bid for €75 million – but Barcelona said no
According to previous reports from El Chiringuito, Chelsea were ready to start negotiations, while Diario Sport claimed that they had made a bid of €75 million.
The Blues were hoping to take advantage of López’s limited playing time, as he remains second choice behind Dani Olmo in Flick’s plans. Inter Milan have also shown interest in him for 2025.
Despite the rumours, López has repeatedly denied talk of a departure, and the Huelva-born star recently signed a new long-term contract that binds him to the club until 2029.
Barcelona rejected Nkunku swap proposal
A new update from Mundo Deportivo reveals that Chelsea were willing to offer a player swap to change Barcelona’s attitude.
France international Christopher Nkunku has struggled with injuries and poor form since arriving at Chelsea, which has been a major problem for the former RB Leipzig player.
But Flick is determined not to let López disappear in exchange for Nkunku, as he appreciates the Spaniard’s versatility and goalscoring prowess – even though he is not a permanent fixture in the team.
The uncertainty surrounding Frenkie de Jong also plays in López’s favour, as Barcelona do not know if the Dutch star will extend his contract. His current deal in Catalonia expires in 2026, and a new deal is not in place yet.
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