Manchester City is once again looking at FC Barcelona to strengthen its squad, Guardiola wants to keep relying on young talent and has already given the green light to an ambitious operation. In this case, the main target for the Catalan coach is a player developed at La Masia who has become one of Camp Nou's favorites. He is an explosive, versatile midfielder with a strong scoring ability.
Reports from England indicate that the Citizen side is preparing a €60 million offer. This is a difficult amount to refuse in Barça's current situation. Joan Laporta needs immediate income to comply with Financial Fair Play, and this proposal could be a quick way to solve several economic issues.
The protagonist of this move is Fermín López. The Andalusian has been one of the season's biggest revelations for the culés. His performance has completely convinced coach Hansi Flick, who is counting on him for the project. However, the pressure from the Premier League could change the German coach's plans.
Simeone and Guardiola, watching Fermín
Fermín is not only of interest to Guardiola. In Spain he also has a major admirer: Diego Simeone, Atlético de Madrid's coach, has been following his progress for months. In fact, the colchonero club inquired about him in recent weeks. But City's entry into the picture greatly complicates the rojiblancos' options.
Guardiola sees in Fermín a profile very similar to Gavi or Pedri, with more presence in the box. His power, energy, and character fit perfectly in English soccer. In addition, he is a player with significant international projection and a manageable salary compared to other targets in the market. City's intention is to close the deal before the end of August. According to sources close to the English club, there have already been contacts with the player's entourage.
Fermín and Gavi for sale
Fermín López, for now, hasn't made a decision. He feels important at Barça, but he knows that the competition with Gavi, Pedri, and the young Marc Casado will be fierce. Joan Laporta now faces a dilemma. If he accepts the €60 million for Fermín, the club would gain immediate financial margin, but it would also lose a key player for both the present and the future.
Hansi Flick has communicated that he is counting on him, although he understands the club's financial situation. The final decision will also depend on whether other offers arrive for less decisive footballers. In any case, the sporting management is already seriously considering the Andalusian's departure.
Everything will depend on whether the player agrees to make the leap to the Premier League under Guardiola. Barça faces, once again, a dilemma between financial and sporting priorities, Fermín could be the next to leave Camp Nou if Laporta prioritizes the accounts.