

Barcelona have rejected Chelsea’s attempt to sign Fermin Lopez in a player-plus-cash deal involving Christopher Nkunku.
The 22-year-old made only 12 La Liga starts in the 2024/25 season but impressed with six goals, contributing significantly to Barça’s treble-winning campaign under Hansi Flick.
Chelsea, eager to improve their midfield after sealing a last-minute Champions League spot, reportedly tabled a €75 million offer, according to Diario Sport, and explored a swap involving the injury-plagued Nkunku.
However, Mundo Deportivo reports that Barcelona turned down the proposal, with Flick keen to retain Lopez due to his versatility and attacking edge.
The club see him as a key asset, especially with uncertainty lingering over Frenkie de Jong’s future.
The Dutchman’s contract runs until 2026, and no renewal talks are currently active.
Lopez, who recently extended his contract until 2029, has publicly dismissed speculation about a move.