Chelsea Launch Official Assault on Barcelona's Rising Star Fermin Lopez
As the summer transfer window approaches its final 48 hours, Chelsea have allegedly submitted an official written offer to Barcelona targeting Fermín López.
The London club has invested heavily this transfer period, allocating close to £300 million ($405.1 million) to assemble a competitive squad for Premier League contention. Alongside acquisitions like João Pedro and Jamie Gittens, Chelsea have also recently brought Alejandro Garnacho to Stamford Bridge.
However, acquiring a creative midfielder remains on Enzo Maresca's priority list, particularly following their unsuccessful pursuit of Xavi Simons, who ultimately moved to Tottenham Hotspur. The club subsequently turned their attention to Fermín, with significant progress occurring shortly after their 2–0 triumph against Fulham on Saturday.
Fabrizio Romano indicates Chelsea have lodged an official offer for Fermín valued at €40 million (£34.6 million; $46.7 million). The Premier League side is currently awaiting Barcelona's response, though the outcome may depend on Fermín's personal interest in the transfer.
The alleged bid falls significantly short of Barcelona's anticipated €90 million (£78 million, $105 million) valuation for the Spanish midfielder. This development follows Hansi Flick's strong statements about Fermín's future at the Catalan club.
"I had a conversation with [Fermín]. I'm certain he will remain, though ultimately I cannot predict what will transpire," Flick stated during his pre-match media briefing on Saturday. "We must be patient. I'll be relieved when the [transfer] window concludes.
"My focus must be on the squad, and I'm delighted that Fermín represents Barça. He's an essential player for our team. He demonstrated this throughout last season. His playing style differs from other squad members. He can contribute significantly to our success," Flick continued.
Fermín featured in 46 matches during Barcelona's 2024–25 season, contributing to the Catalans' La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup victories. The 22-year-old achieved a personal best of 17 goal contributions while competing for regular playing time in Flick's starting lineup.
The Spain representative started Barcelona's 2025–26 La Liga season opener but was substituted at the interval following a disappointing display. Fermín remained on the bench throughout the Catalans' 3–2 win against Levante the following weekend.
Nevertheless, Flick remains convinced that Fermín's commitment lies with Barcelona, regardless of Chelsea's growing interest.
"It's evident that he breathes [for] Barça. He adores Barça. I believe, without revealing too much, that deep down he belongs to Barça."