Barcelona continues shaping its squad for the 2025/26 season, and in the offices at Camp Nou, there are two names that are no longer untouchable. Deco, the sporting director of the blaugrana club, has made a firm decision: he will listen to offers for Fermín López and Pablo Gavi. These are two top-level midfielders who are now marked as expendable.
Barça needs to raise funds, and the situation with Financial Fair Play remains a problem for the culé entity. Although the priority was to sell players with less prominence, reality has forced more drastic decisions. Gavi and Fermín, two of the great talents developed at La Masia, could leave the club as early as this summer.
No option is ruled out; Barça is willing to consider either a loan or a permanent transfer. The priority is to bring in money and free up wage bill space. Gavi has a good reputation in Europe, and although he doesn't want to leave, his future isn't guaranteed. Meanwhile, Fermín would be more open to leaving if he doesn't get regular playing time.
Simeone after Gavi and Fermín
In this context, there is a club closely monitoring the situation: Atlético de Madrid. Simeone is a great admirer of both players. The Argentine coach especially values their commitment, intensity, and ability to work on both sides of the field. If their availability is confirmed, Cholo won't hesitate to launch an offensive.
The possibility of Atlético signing a player from Barça always sparks debate, but it wouldn't be the first time it has happened. David Villa, Luis Suárez or Memphis Depay are some recent examples. Simeone knows that strengthening his midfield with young, hungry profiles can make the difference in a long and demanding season.
Departures at Atlético that need a solution
Additionally, Atlético de Madrid is also experiencing an important transition period, players like De Paul and Lino could leave the club, and a renewal in midfield is being sought. Gavi and Fermín fit into that new, more physical and dynamic model. Meanwhile, Barça is open to negotiating with Spanish teams if the offer is good.
Everything will depend on Hansi Flick's final stance, the German coach hasn't yet given the final OK on the departures. However, in the offices, the sporting management is already clear that neither Fermín nor Gavi are untouchable. If an offer arrives that matches the club's interests, it will be very seriously considered.
Gavi is still recovering from his injury and wants to show he can be important, his intention is to stay. However, if he isn't guaranteed a leading role, he could be open to a change of scenery. As for Fermín López, he knows he has options in LaLiga and the Premier League, and he's willing to leave Barça on loan if he doesn't get playing time.