FC Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid are negotiating a player exchange that could shake up the next transfer market. The operation would involve the departure of Fermín López, a footballer who was key last season under Xavi Hernández's orders but has lost prominence with Hansi Flick.
His reduced playing time has caught the attention of Atlético de Madrid, who see in him a player with great potential to strengthen their midfield. In this situation, Barça has decided to take advantage of the interest from Atlético to launch an unexpected proposal.
Fermín López's Change of Role at Barça
Last year, Fermín López was one of Barça's great revelations. With 11 goals and 4 assists in LaLiga, his breakthrough allowed him to earn a spot on the Spanish national team. To play both in Euro 2024 and the Paris 2024 Olympics, where Spain ended up being crowned champions.
However, the arrival of Hansi Flick on the bench has completely changed his situation. His time on the field has been drastically reduced, accumulating only 1,116 minutes in all competitions of the 2024-2025 season. In LaLiga, he has played just 26% of the possible minutes, starting in only six matches.
This decrease in his participation has made Atlético de Madrid see Fermín López as a market opportunity. Diego Simeone has expressly asked the Atlético board to make an effort for his signing, considering him an ideal piece to strengthen his team.
Barça's Offer to Atlético de Madrid
Atlético is willing to negotiate for Fermín López, and his market value is around 50 million euros. But instead of accepting a direct sale, Barça has proposed a much more attractive alternative: a player exchange.
The name that Barça has put forward is that of a top-level forward, who has already shown his scoring ability in Europe. A footballer who would fit perfectly into Flick's scheme and would become the new offensive reference for the blaugrana team.
Fermín López for...
Barça's proposal is clear: Fermín López in exchange for Julián Álvarez.
The Argentine forward has become one of Atlético de Madrid's great stars since his arrival, being essential in Simeone's scheme. His speed, ability to finish, and versatility in attack have established him as one of the best forwards in LaLiga.
At Barça, they believe that his arrival would mean a quality leap in the forward line and could enhance the team's attack in the coming seasons. His ability to play as a center forward or alongside another '9' makes him ideal for Flick's plans.
However, Atlético de Madrid are not willing to let him go easily. Although they view the incorporation of Fermín López favorably, they consider that losing Julián Álvarez would be too hard a blow for their sports project.
Negotiations will remain open in the coming months, and it remains to be seen to what extent Atlético is willing to give in. What is clear is that Barça has made a move and is clear that they want Julián Álvarez as their major signing for the next season.