BILBAO, SPAIN - MAY 25: Mikel Jauregizar of Athletic Club challenges Fermin Lopez of FC Barcelona during the LaLiga match between Athletic Club and FC Barcelona at Estadio de San Mames on May 25, 2025 in Bilbao, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
BILBAO, SPAIN - MAY 25: Mikel Jauregizar of Athletic Club challenges Fermin Lopez of FC Barcelona during the LaLiga match between Athletic Club and FC Barcelona at Estadio de San Mames on May 25, 2025 in Bilbao, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
During the summer transfer window, Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez found himself at the centre of intense speculation.
Reports linked him with a big-money move to Chelsea, who made a strong push to lure him to London.
The offer was tempting, not only for the player but also for those close to him.
Yet, in the end, Fermin chose to stay, showing his loyalty and commitment to Barcelona despite the doubts around his role in the squad.
According to revelations made by the podcast Barça Reservat (h/t SPORT), Fermin had open conversations with both coach Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco during the tense final days of the transfer market.
As soon as Chelsea’s interest became concrete, Fermin approached Flick directly.
He admitted that while his heart was set on continuing at Barça, he was also considering Chelsea’s proposal because he felt his playing time last season had not reflected his efforts on the pitch.
LAS PALMAS, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 22: Fermin Lopez of FC Barcelona warms up p the LaLiga match between UD Las Palmas and FC Barcelona at Estadio Gran Canaria on February 22, 2025 in Las Palmas, Spain. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
Fermin Lopez was linked to Chelsea. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
Flick understood the frustration but told Fermin he rated him highly and wanted him in the squad.
At the same time, Flick was honest and explained he could not guarantee more minutes due to strong competition in midfield.
Afterwards, Fermin also spoke with Deco. The sporting director showed empathy for the youngster’s situation, telling him that if Chelsea returned with an offer that matched Barcelona’s demands, the club would not stand in his way.
However, Chelsea never reached the figure Barça were asking for, which meant the door to a transfer closed.
In the end, the outcome was positive for Barcelona. Flick kept a talented midfielder he trusts, while Fermin reaffirmed his commitment to the club he grew up in.
Now, his main challenge is to break into the starting XI, where his biggest competition comes from Dani Olmo.