Barcelona has declared their transfer ambitions on emerging talent with boss Hansi Flick reportedly eager to hold onto the 21-year-old midfielder despite growing interest from Manchester United and other European giants.
The Spaniard has enjoyed a breakout 2024-25 campaign, netting five times and providing eight assists in 34 appearances, displaying his utility as both a creative threat and goal threat.
While United are reportedly said to have made a €70 million (£61m) verbal offer in January, Barcelona rebuffed the bid, with their treble offer being top priority.
In the opinion of Fichajes, the player is Fermín López.
Flick considers Fermín to be indispensable because of his tireless energy, technical quality, and tactical flexibility.
The midfielder’s versatility to play in various positions—like a No. 10—has won him over at Camp Nou, with the club refusing to hear out summer approaches despite their financial situation.
It makes Manchester United’s plans difficult, with new manager Ruben Amorim reportedly having had Fermín in mind as an ideal fit for his 3-4-3 system.
Liverpool, Atlético Madrid, and Aston Villa are also tracking the situation, but Barcelona’s determination may make suitors think twice.
The Catalans will still need to sell a few players to balance the books; Andreas Christensen, Eric Garcia, and Héctor Fort are set to be sold.
Ansu Fati and Pablo Torre are also up for sale, with the future of Frenkie de Jong unclear, despite his recent revival.
Fermín, however, as much a key cog in Flick’s scheme as his manager, is not up for sale.
The experienced goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny will sign another year on his contract despite the persistent delays.
For the time being, Barcelona’s message is as clear as day: Fermín López is not for sale.
With the club keen on building around promising youngsters like him, Manchester United and others could have to look elsewhere this summer.
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