Enzo Maresca and Chelsea are far from done chasing young midfielder Fermin Lopez. The Blues’ interest isn’t slowing down.
Chelsea push for Barca’s Fermin Lopez
Chelsea shocked plenty of people when they launched a late €40m bid for Fermin Lopez before the summer window shut. It looked like a bold move, but deep down the club knew it was a near-impossible mission.
Barcelona were never keen on cashing in, not at that price. He is a player they view as central to their long-term plans. Even if the Blues had raised the offer, it wouldn’t have mattered. Fermin himself has been vocal about his love for Barca. He’s been there since he was a kid, and his commitment to honor his contract there. His refusal to entertain a move made the deal collapse within a day, but Chelsea’s admiration didn’t fade.
Future battle still on the cards
This wasn’t Chelsea’s first look at Fermin. The midfielder has been on their wishlist for more than a year. Their late bid was less about filling a direct gap and more about showing their interest. They wanted Lopez to know their interest is serious and long-term.
Sources close to the west London side suggest this isn’t the end of the story. The player remains high on their shortlist. If the situation changes in future, Chelsea won’t hesitate to go back in. But, Barca are equally determined to keep him, convinced he can be a star for the next decade. That sets up a tug-of-war worth watching, even if Fermin holds the cards for now.
Author’s Opinion:
Chelsea might not have landed Fermin Lopez this time, but the intent from them was clear. If anything shifts in Barcelona or with the player’s mindset, expect the Blues to pounce again. The Spanish youngster looks untouchable at the moment.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
