Rumors about a possible departure of Fermín López are growing every day. Proposals very close to €90 million have arrived from the Premier League. Such an amount would provide immediate relief for Barça's finances.
FC Barcelona's board is watching the situation closely. Nobody wants to part with the homegrown player, but the market rules. With so much foreign interest, Joan Laporta is starting to consider strategic alternatives.
Joan Laporta could finance new signings with the sale of Fermín López
The possible transfer would open up a range of opportunities in the market. Barça needs liquidity to compete with the top European clubs. There appears a target who is also on Florentino's list.
For months, Real Madrid's president has been closely following a highly sought-after defender. His contract ends soon, which makes his signing easier. Florentino considers him one of the priorities of his project.
Florentino's target is also on Joan Laporta's agenda
The interest from Madrid is firm, but Joan Laporta wants to get ahead. With the income from Fermín, he would have room to convince the footballer. That liquidity could change the outcome of the operation.
The center-back in question is Ibrahima Konaté, currently at Liverpool. His contract ends next season and his departure would be more affordable. Laporta believes it's the perfect opportunity to strengthen the defense.
Ibrahima Konaté, the center-back who pits Barça against Real Madrid
Florentino doesn't hide his desire to close the signing as soon as possible. For Real Madrid, he would be a key piece in the medium term. The Frenchman combines youth, physical power, and international experience.
The problem for Madrid's president is that Laporta has new cards to play. With Fermín's money, Barça can present an attractive proposal. That would force Florentino to act quickly.
A duel of presidents with their eyes on the future
It wouldn't be the first time Barça and Real Madrid compete for the same talent. In this case, the pressure is greater due to the context. Both know that strengthening the backline is essential.
Laporta sees Konaté as a safe bet, similar to what Koundé was at the time. Florentino, meanwhile, sees him as the heir to his current defense.
Fermín López, key in the market battle
The operation depends directly on the future of the Andalusian homegrown player. If the Premier League fulfills the expected offers, everything will accelerate. His €90 million would have an immediate impact in the offices.
Joan Laporta trusts that this income will allow him to balance the books and attack the market. Florentino, meanwhile, fears losing a strategic signing. The outcome is approaching and promises strong emotions in the market.