Barça is currently in South Korea, where next Monday it will play its last friendly before returning to the capital of Catalonia. Right now, the transfer market is more hectic than ever, to the point that Deco, the sporting director, has had to join the culer expedition. One name has gained a lot of momentum in recent hours, all due to a huge offer that nobody expected to arrive: Fermín López.
Fermín, 22 years old, is one of the most valued players in FC Barcelona's squad despite not being an undisputed starter. He has a contract until 2029 and a release clause of €1 billion. Initially, nobody considered his possible departure, but his secondary role and the possibility of making money unexpectedly could change absolutely everything.
70 million for Fermín López
David Bernabéu, journalist for SPORT, has revealed that Manchester United has shown interest in signing the Andalusian and is preparing a major proposal. In total, this would exceed €70 million, a situation that all parties have known about for some time. So far, no progress has been made in any area, although "it's possible" that the transfer "could go through" in the coming weeks.
There is debate at Barça about Fermín López's role and the need to bring in money. His name has come up a lot this summer, having attracted interest from Saudi Arabia, Chelsea, and even Arsenal. But the club that is now willing to make a strong bid for him is Manchester United, which needs to turn around its delicate situation.
Fermín Lopez is a footballer personally requested by United's coach, Rúben Amorim. He fits his play style, bringing a lot of goal-scoring ability and having great potential ahead. Relations between both entities have been very positive since the negotiations for Marcus Rashford, with good conversations in recent weeks.
Decision made
Madrid-Barcelona has learned that Barça, despite the need and the major proposal, has no intention of selling Fermín. The plan is not to negotiate, and only the footballer himself could change this. His future will depend on him. In other words, Deco doesn't intend to force his departure and would only enter into negotiations with Manchester United if the Andalusian himself requests it.
So far, there is no sign that Fermín López might force his exit. Although he would like to have more minutes—like everyone—he is happy at Barça and in Barcelona. He has no intention of leaving, and only a major proposal, both financially and in sporting terms, could make him change his mind. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United will be able to do so.