FC Barcelona is in the midst of a rebuilding phase. After Hansi Flick's arrival on the bench, the club is working tirelessly to strengthen the squad for next season.
But it's not just about signings; there are also many eyes on the talents the club already has. One of the most desired names at the moment is Fermín López.
The Andalusian midfielder, only 22 years old, has been one of the season's great discoveries. With 8 goals and 9 assists in 46 matches, his name has started to make waves in the offices of several European giants.
Chelsea's temptation
Chelsea didn't take long to make a move. According to Mundo Deportivo, the English side made a proposal that included €70 million (70 million euros) and, in addition, a swap deal that has raised many eyebrows at Can Barça.
The London club put forward the name of Christopher Nkunku, the French striker who is 27 years old, who has excelled with 14 goals and 5 assists in 42 matches this season. Chelsea's coach, Enzo Maresca, reportedly personally requested the signing of Fermín, seeing him as a key piece for his new project.
The plan was simple: Nkunku for Fermín, in a swap deal that, at first, seemed tempting. But Barça had other plans.
Barça's response: no, thanks
The response was clear and swift. Barça has rejected the offer. Neither Joan Laporta nor Hansi Flick are keen on letting go of a player like Fermín, who represents both the present and future of the club.
Moreover, Nkunku isn't among the technical staff's priorities. Although he is a player of proven quality, he doesn't quite fit the profile the Catalan club is looking for to strengthen its attack.
Now what happens with Fermín?
Everything will depend on him; the club would only consider his departure if Fermín himself asks to leave. Not for lack of trust, but because of his desire to get more minutes, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon. The competition will be tough.
In his position, he will compete with Dani Olmo, Gavi, and if Luis Díaz ends up signing for Barça. For now, Fermín remains focused on Barça. But it can't be ruled out that in the coming weeks he may make an important decision about his future.
A very busy market
The case of Fermín and Nkunku is just one example of the intense transfer market Barcelona is experiencing. Offers, calls, and proposals arrive daily.
Barça doesn't just want to sign players. It also wants to secure its young talents, and Fermín is undoubtedly one of them. The story isn't over, and there may still be chapters left to write.