Chelsea have failed with a swap deal offer for Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez, according to reports in Spain.
The all-action midfielder was somewhat on the periphery of the Blaugrana’s success in Hansi Flick’s first season. Given the household names in Barcelona’s centre of the park, Fermin naturally struggled to win a starting spot in the side.
Still, the 22-year-old’s insatiable drive forward was evident when given chances to impress. Despite primarily coming off the bench, Fermin managed to chip in with a respectable eight goals and 10 assists last term.
His talent is undeniable, and there is a good argument to be made that he would be a starter for most clubs around Europe. This has naturally given rise to speculation that he could leave Barcelona.
Several Premier League clubs have been linked with the youngster in recent months, and Chelsea are the latest side to be credited with an interest in him.
Chelsea make Fermin offer
On Friday, El Chiringuito claimed that the Blues are actively pursuing a move for Fermin and that they are ready to pay as much as €75 million for the midfielder, who has a €500m release clause.
Catalan outlet Mundo Deportivo has now given its take on the situation and confirms that the 22-year-old is one of Barcelona’s ‘most sought-after players.’
The report states that Chelsea have explored different formulas, including a potential swap deal with wantaway forward Christopher Nkunku. Enzo Maresca is said to be a huge fan of Fermin.
However, Barcelona rejected the approach out of hand and have made it clear that they have no intention of selling Fermin. The only way to get them to soften their stance would be if the player were to demand a transfer, which is unlikely as things stand.
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