Chelsea came close to signing Fermin Lopez last summer from Barcelona, and now, the Nou Camp talent has responded when asked if he could leave the Spanish giants.
Last summer, Chelsea made an offer to sign Fermin Lopez. The Blues gaffer Enzo Maresca was prepared to offer the five-time Spain international a starting role in his Chelsea side, but he remained at Barcelona.
Since then, the La Masia academy graduate has gone from strength to strength under Hansi Flick, having a hand in 23 goals this season in 37 appearances for Barcelona. He is now a key player at the Nou Camp.
Morgan Rogers on the left, Cole Palmer in the No.10 and Estevao on the right 🤩
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Morgan Rogers transfer rumour graphic
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After Chelsea’s interest, Lopez has been constantly asked about his future at Barcelona and if he could be tempted with an exit again. Chelsea’s interest is unlikely to have ended and if available, they will be keen.
Chelsea learn Fermin Lopez is keen to remain at Barcelona
The feeling from Lopez’s camp is that the Spanish gem would prefer to remain with his current club, now he is a crucial part of Flick’s side. On The Residency App, Lopez responded to questions from supporters.
One fan asked Lopez where he sees himself 10 years from now. Indeed, a decade into the future, Lopez will be 32 and entering the latter third of his career. He says he hopes to still be playing for Barcelona.
It comes after Lopez put pen to paper on a two-year extension at Barcelona at the end of the January market. Indeed, Lopez agreed to the extension, which will see him remain at Barcelona until January 2031.
Chelsea should go all out for Fermin Lopez – discuss 💵
If Cole Palmer leaves, Lopez would be the ideal replacement.
Screenshot of Fermin Lopez respinding to a fan on the Residency App.
Lopez was open to Chelsea move in the summer for four reasons
Reports from Spain claimed last summer that Lopez was open to a move to Chelsea for four separate reasons. The first being he would earn a much bigger salary should he swap Barcelona for West London.
He believed his chances of starting games were better at Chelsea, while his relationship with Flick was up and down. It was also claimed that Lopez was away from his close pals and made an exit more likely.
Fermin Lopez during Barcelona warm-up
Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images
However, six months later, his relationship with Flick has clearly improved, given he has clocked up a huge 37 appearances already this term. He has been shown he can get game time and has a new contract.
Lopez might have been tempted to move to Stamford Bridge in the summer but for the same reasons he wanted to go to Chelsea, he will now be foolish to leave. Chelsea will likely be keeping tabs regardless.
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