With the arrival of Hansi Flick and the pressure to become competitive in Europe again, FC Barcelona faces a summer of difficult decisions. In the offices of the Catalan club, they know they must strengthen, but they are also aware that the current economic situation doesn't allow for luxuries. In that scenario, the market priority is clear: signing a new center forward who can take on the starting role given Lewandowski's inconsistency.
With this in mind, certain names come up, but also possible sacrifices to carry out the operation. One of the most concerning internally is Fermín López: the young homegrown player has performed with personality when given minutes, but his continuity is not guaranteed. The competition in the midfield is fierce, and despite his growth, there are those in the offices who don't fully consider him essential in light of market situations like these.
Deco's big bet
The sports management has a clear offensive priority: Alexander Isak. The Swede has excelled this season at Newcastle and has been considered by many as the best "9" in the Premier League. His ease in scoring goals and previous experience in La Liga make him the ideal profile to take on Barça's offensive leadership in the next season.
However, his signing is not easy: the English club is asking for around 100 million euros for his departure, a figure unattainable for Barça without selling first. Faced with this reality, Deco has presented Flick with a clear proposal: transfer Fermín López, among other players, to facilitate Isak's arrival. The Swede wants to play in the Champions League and compete for titles, and Barça could offer him that if they achieve the necessary financial muscle.
Difficult decision, no consensus
Fermín has left a good impression, but the club must prioritize. Although Flick values his commitment, he also knows that the midfield includes names like Pedri, De Jong, and Gavi. Thus, the idea of using his sale as leverage to improve other areas of the field is gaining traction among the directors.
He wouldn't be the only one to leave: Ansu Fati, Ronald Araújo, and Pablo Torre are also on the exit radar. But Fermín's name appears as an interesting card due to his projection, market value, and low training cost. If his transfer serves to bring Isak closer to Camp Nou, Barça could make that decision without waiting any longer.