Barcelona's Summer Exodus: Separating Fact from Fiction on Three Major Transfer Rumors

Barcelona's sporting director Deco disclosed that Manchester City made inquiries about Jules Koundé's potential transfer this summer—receiving a definitive rejection—and confirmed there was never serious contemplation of parting ways with Fermín López and Marc Casadó.


They received a definitive rejection, though the right-back wasn't the sole squad member whose transfer interest was turned down.

The former centre-back has flourished with the Catalan club in recent seasons, establishing an excellently coordinated partnership with Lamine Yamal along the right wing. Koundé has encountered some disciplinary challenges during Hansi Flick's management but enjoys strong mutual respect with the club, signing a five-year contract extension in August.

Prior to that agreement being confirmed, City explored possibilities. "Listen, wanting to acquire him is quite subjective. No, there wasn't an official bid. What I can confirm is that City—now with Hugo Viana and previously with Txiki [Begiristain]—were seeking a fullback, and naturally they inquired whether Koundé might be available," Deco explained to Mundo Deportivo.

"And our response was negative. So there wasn't any formal offer or negotiations. It's similar to if I contacted a club's sporting director and asked about a position we're targeting and whether you're considering making it available...

"As we've stated from the start, our relationship with City, with Txiki and now with Hugo Viana, who is my friend, remains positive and straightforward, without any intermediaries that don't exist."

Deco Provides Insight on Fermin Lopez, Marc Casado Interest

While City showed interest in Koundé, connections between Chelsea and Fermín López persisted throughout much of the summer. The London club allegedly submitted a bid valued at €40 million (£34.6 million; $46.7 million), but Deco maintains that Barcelona were never inclined to entertain any proposal for their homegrown talent.

"Parting with Fermín would have diminished our squad strength," the former Portugal midfielder stated. "Had he approached us expressing a desire to depart, we might have evaluated it, but that scenario never occurred."

Similar rumors circulated regarding Fermín's teammate Marc Casadó. Again, this proved fruitless. "When we receive a proposal and the player, for any reason, shows uncertainty, we can discuss and evaluate it, but that situation didn't arise with Casadó," Deco remarked.