Chelsea Makes Stunning Last-Minute Move for Barcelona Star in Surprise Transfer Talks
Chelsea's transfer activity this summer might continue as reports suggest the Blues are "exploring the potential" of securing Barcelona's attacking midfielder Fermín López.
The London club has invested approximately £293.7 million ($395.8 million) on nine new signings during this transfer window, while simultaneously generating nearly equivalent revenue of £273.4 million through player sales when all performance bonuses are included. Players like Nicolas Jackson, Christopher Nkunku and Tyrique George remain on the market.
The pursuit of López appears to be driven by opportunity. The 22-year-old academy product has netted 19 goals during his two campaigns with Barcelona's senior squad and represents a remarkable success from the club's increased focus on youth development amid recent financial difficulties.
The Athletic reports that Chelsea have established "contact" with López's representatives, viewing him as a potential squad enhancement should additional departures occur before the window closes. Direct negotiations with Barcelona have not yet commenced.
The Spanish giants continue struggling with squad registration issues. Players Marcus Rashford and Joan García required last-minute clearance to feature in La Liga just before the season commenced. Meanwhile, Wojciech Szczęsny, Roony Bardghji and Gerard Martín remain unavailable due to financial limitations.
Academy graduate Marc Casadó was previously considered expendable, but selling López could provide the necessary funds to complete those remaining registrations if Chelsea decides to formalize their interest.
Barcelona appears well-equipped to handle López's departure in attacking midfield positions. Both Dani Olmo and Gavi are capable of operating in the No. 10 position, while Raphinha becomes a viable option following Rashford's arrival on the left wing. Manager Hansi Flick has also promoted 17-year-old Dro Fernández to the pre-season roster.
López's development path could have taken a drastically different direction. He spent the 2022–23 campaign on loan with third-tier Spanish side Linares and nearly joined Polish outfit Raków Częstochowa in a transfer worth merely €600,000 ($699,123). When that move collapsed, he seized his opportunity during pre-season and has remained a fixture in the first team ever since.