In many ways, this summer transfer window forced Barcelona to make some big decisions. After all, the Catalan club is still far from being in an ideal financial position. Thus, any significant offers that come their way have to be assessed at the very least.
One of the players to attract a lot of interest from other clubs this summer was Fermin Lopez. The young midfielder, known for his dynamism and intensity, managed to attract the interest of English clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United.
Flick makes his stance clear on Fermin
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 10: Fermin Lopez of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the Joan Gamper Trophy match between FC Barcelona and Como1907 at Estadi Johan Cruyff on August 10, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain.
Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images
According to SPORT, both Premier League clubs tabled offers close to €80 million for Lopez, proposals that would have immediately solved many of Barça’s financial fair play concerns.
Internally, there was genuine debate. Several voices at the club viewed the bids as too good to turn down, particularly given the depth in midfield and the potential transfer fee being well above expectations.
However, two figures decisively closed the door: Fermin himself, who never once entertained the idea of leaving Camp Nou, and Hansi Flick.
The German coach was adamant that the youngster is central to his plans and insisted the club reject the offers. Flick even accepted that if no reinforcements could be signed due to financial restrictions, he was fully satisfied with the squad as long as Lopez remained.
Weeks earlier, Lopez had also turned down a staggering offer from Saudi Arabia, making it clear that his priority was to succeed at Barcelona rather than pursue financial gain elsewhere. This commitment, combined with Flick’s veto, ultimately secured his continuity.
Casado’s case is different at Barcelona
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MARCH 01: Marc Casado of FC Barcelona looks on during the La Liga EA match between FC Barcelona and Real Sociedad at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on March 02, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain.
Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images
The situation of Marc Casado, on the other hand, is reportedly a bit different. The Catalans are aware that the player’s opportunities will be limited this season, and considering the kind of interest that he is attracting, a move for him cannot completely be ruled out just yet.