Chelsea threaten to leave Newcastle United and Manchester United behind in the race for Barcelona playmaker Fermin Lopez despite.
As the 2025 summer transfer window ticks down to its final hours, Chelsea remain determined to push for Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez, even as the Catalan club insist he is not for sale.
The 22-year-old has emerged as one of Europe’s most exciting young midfielders after a breakout campaign at Camp Nou, combining technical flair with the kind of energy and directness that has quickly turned heads across the continent. Chelsea were the first to make a concrete approach, tabling an offer worth around €40 million including bonuses.
However, Barcelona have been quick to rebuff such advances, with senior figures adamant that Lopez is “non-transferable.” Manager Hansi Flick is also convinced the Spanish youth international should remain part of his plans, seeing him as an integral part of Barca’s future.
Competition from across Europe
According to Caught Offside, Chelsea may be leading the charge, but they are far from alone. Newcastle United are believed to be preparing an audacious €100 million bid, coupled with a lucrative salary package that would significantly outstrip his current terms. Such a move highlights just how highly Lopez is regarded within Premier League circles.
Newcastle United, meanwhile, continue to watch developments closely. While not yet as aggressive, the Magpies are understood to be assessing creative options, with Lopez firmly on their shortlist. Manchester United, too, are monitoring from a distance, viewing the Spaniard as a potential solution for the medium term as Ruben Amorim reshapes his midfield.
Barcelona’s dilemma
Despite their hardline stance, Barcelona’s financial situation remains a complicating factor. The club still needs to balance its books and register new signings, which means that an offer in the €70-90 million range could be enough to test their resolve.
Inside the dressing room, competition for midfield places is fierce. With Pedri, Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, Dani Olmo, and others already vying for minutes, Lppez faces no guarantee of regular starts, raising questions about his long-term development if he stays put.
With around 24 hours to go, Chelsea are unlikely to abandon their pursuit. For the Blues, the Spaniard represents not only a player of immense promise but also a statement signing after missing out on other high-profile targets this summer.
Whether Barcelona hold firm or buckle under mounting pressure remains to be seen, but what’s certain is that Fermin Lopez has become one of the defining names of this transfer window, especially as we reach its climax.