In a season full of positive surprises for Barça, Fermín is one of them. The youth academy player is one of the most underrated players on the team, despite his impeccable performance every time he steps on the field. Whether as a game-changer coming off the bench or starting as a regular, Fermín always responds.
However, in high-stakes matches, Hansi Flick seems to have Dani Olmo ahead. The Spanish international, signed this summer as one of the key reinforcements for the new project, usually occupies the playmaker role, leaving Fermín López in the background.
Simeone was very interested
Fermín's situation has not gone unnoticed by other clubs, and Atlético de Madrid is very interested. Simeone's team has been closely following the player trained at La Masia for months and has kept several discreet approaches throughout the season. Fermín, meanwhile, is clear that he wants to play more.
He is not closed to continuing at Barça, but he is seriously considering his future. He knows that the summer market will be key to defining his role in Hansi Flick's squad, and if he is not guaranteed a greater prominence, he might listen to offers.
Barça won't let Fermín leave
Despite Atlético's interest, Barça is clear that Fermín López is not for sale. The sports management considers him a strategic piece for the team's future. His style fits with the club's DNA and his growth potential is enormous.
Atlético de Madrid has already signed Fermín's 'replacement'
While Fermín's future is being shaped, Atlético de Madrid has activated another operation in parallel. It is Álex Baena, a midfielder from Villarreal who plays in the same position as Fermín. With a release clause of €60 million, the red-and-white team has already initiated contacts to finalize his signing for the summer, according to Relevo.
This move would not only distance Atlético from the race for Fermín, but it also directly harms Barça. Álex Baena was one of the names most liked by the culé sports management, especially for his creative profile and his leadership ability in the final third of the field. His move to Atlético would mean losing a strategic target, while also strengthening a direct rival in La Liga.