Manchester City are now in talks to hijack Chelsea's move for a "spectacular" midfielder, who the west Londoners were hoping to sign very soon.
Man City rivalling Chelsea for new midfielders
Despite Pep Guardiola repeatedly making it clear he wants to work with a smaller squad this season, Man City remain interested in bringing in at least one new midfielder before the deadline, and they have been credited with an interest in signing RB Leipzig's Xavi Simons.
However, Simons is seemingly set on joining Chelsea, despite having to wait a long time for the west Londoners to get a deal over the line, which means City have now been forced to more on to alternative targets.
RB Leipzig's Xavi Simons reacts after the match
RB Leipzig's Xavi Simons reacts after the match
With a deal for the RB Leipzig attacking midfielder looking unlikely, transfer expert Graeme Bailey has now revealed that Guardiola's side could hijack a move for a different Chelsea target, namely Barcelona's Fermin Lopez.
Speaking to TBR Football, Bailey said: "Chelsea were made aware of Lopez possibly being available, and he is a player they love, indeed, most clubs in Europe love him as a talent.
"Lopez has not been agitating to this point, but the camp has been talking to other clubs, and that includes City and Spurs. Nothing advanced at this point, but merely exploring possible options."
It was recently revealed that Enzo Maresca's side are hoping to sign Lopez very soon, having already submitted a £50m bid for the Barca maestro's services, but there could now be a twist in the tale, with Man City in talks with his agents.
"Spectacular" Lopez could be exciting Simons alternative
City seemingly stand little chance of winning the race for Simons, but the Barca midfielder could be a fantastic alternative, given that he also flourishes in an attacking midfield role, regularly providing goals and assists since making a breakthrough in the 2023-24 campaign.
Season Appearances G/A (all comps)
2023-24 42 12
2024-25 46 18
Former Barca boss Xavi has previously praised the Spaniard's shooting ability too, claiming he has a "terrific shot from distance", while also adding: "Fermin has a spectacular mentality. He’s always listening, always thinking and I really like his mentality – when you tell him things, they go in and he applies them."
Lopez clearly has all the tools required to be a success at the Etihad Stadium, and given that he is just 22-years-old, the Barca star could be a key player for City for years to come, so it is exciting news that talks have now been opened over a deal.