The season has barely started and some unexpected moves already threaten to shake up the winter transfer market. One of the main names is Fermín López, who just a few days ago turned down a firm offer from Chelsea.
The decision seemed final, but reality is hitting him hard. The Andalusian footballer hasn't managed to find his place in Hansi Flick's plans.
The German coach considers him useful, but the current circumstances have relegated him to a secondary role. The arrival of new signings in his position makes the situation even more complicated.
Fierce competition in the attacking midfield
Fermín is fighting for a spot in the attacking midfield, but his direct rivals are top-level players. The arrival of Dani Olmo, along with Marcus Rashford's offensive repositioning, has left him with very few opportunities. Flick, who values his commitment, knows the margin for error is minimal and prioritizes more experienced players in big matches.
This scenario has caused obvious discomfort for the footballer, who didn't expect to find himself in such a complicated situation after turning down Chelsea. The English club offered him a leading role. However, it was only willing to go up to €40 million ($40 million) in negotiations with Barça.
Guardiola steps in
The unexpected twist comes from the Premier League. According to MB, Pep Guardiola has personally called Fermín to express his interest in bringing him to Manchester City.
The Catalan coach considers him an ideal fit for his play style and sees in him a player capable of fitting perfectly into the English champion's system.
Unlike Chelsea, City has no problem meeting Barça's financial demands. The Catalan club valued Fermín at €80 million ($80 million). Meanwhile, the Manchester side would be willing to reach that figure if the footballer takes the definitive step of requesting his departure.
A decision shaped by time
The footballer's own inner circle doesn't hide that the situation will be solved before the end of the year. If Fermín continues without a leading role and doesn't manage to convince Flick that he deserves more minutes, everything suggests he'll reopen the exit door. This time with a destination in the Premier League, but not at Chelsea.
For Barça, losing him would be a blow, since Flick considers him an important resource for rotation. However, the reality of the market prevails, and City's offer presents a very different scenario from the one Chelsea proposed in the summer.
Goodbye in January?
The club knows the coming weeks will be decisive. Fermín faces a dilemma. He can keep fighting to carve out a place at Barça, with few guarantees of immediate success, or accept Guardiola's call and make the leap to the Premier League.
If nothing changes, the outcome seems clear. Manchester City waits patiently, with millions ready on the table. Fermín's future is once again at stake.