Young footballer with the Chelsea Football Club crest in the background

Neither Atlético nor Chelsea: Barça receives the craziest offer of the year for Fermín López

The youth academy graduate is no longer just a blaugrana, but a desired gem for three giants of modern soccer

Fermín López, Barça's great revelation in 2024‑25, is in the spotlight of at least three top clubs. After a brilliant season under Hansi Flick, his name is linked to PSG, Atlético de Madrid, and Chelsea. FC Barcelona is carefully studying his future, as he could become the most important sale of the summer.

At just 21 years old, Fermín has emerged as a complete midfielder. In 28 official matches, he scored 6 goals and provided 5 assists, showing his ability to get forward, vision on the field, and high competitive pace. It's not just his performance, but his adaptation to tactical demands that attracts scouts.

A player in a black uniform celebrates on a playing field.
Fermín López in a training session | @FCBarcelona

Psg, Atlético and Chelsea pay close attention to the gem

The most advanced proposal comes from PSG, which reportedly submitted an offer close to €75 million (about $81 million), including add-ons. Atlético de Madrid, also urgently seeking a midfielder, has formally inquired about his situation. Chelsea, with its renewed project, is also trying to add young European talent.

PSG's offer is especially attractive: €50 million (about $54 million) fixed plus add-ons that would raise the total to the €75 million (about $81 million) requested by Barça. It's an immediate payment that would ease Laporta's financial pressures. In addition, it would be a quick operation that would create salary space for new signings.

Football players celebrating a goal in a match.
Barça footballers celebrating a goal | @FCBarcelona

Why are these three giants interested?

Fermín's profile fits all three projects: physical power, ability to get forward from the second line, and tactical discipline. PSG sees him as ideal to rejuvenate its midfield without losing competitiveness.

At Atlético, his adaptation to Simeone's style makes him a top target. At Chelsea, his youth and potential fit the new academy philosophy.

The player is appreciated for his versatility: he plays as a right or left interior midfielder, contributes in defensive phases, and creates offensive imbalance. Although Flick has even used him as an attacking midfielder in pressing duties. His maturity on and off the field increases his appeal to demanding clubs.

A player with the number 16 on his jersey celebrates on his knees with arms outstretched in a stadium.
Fermín celebrating a goal | @FCBarcelona

Barcelona forced to decide quickly

Barça faces significant economic pressures after paying clauses for Joan García and Nico Williams. In addition, it needs to balance its accounts before closing the fiscal year. A €75 million (about $81 million) sale of Fermín would bring relief: it would allow urgent signings without causing imbalance.

The club admits that they would prioritize keeping him if there were financial backing to strengthen the squad without selling important talent at a loss. Flick values his presence for his offensive style and competitive character. However, the financial urgency could tip the balance toward his departure.

Two soccer players celebrate a goal in a stadium full of spectators.
Fermín and Gavi celebrating a goal | @FCBarcelona

Sporting consequences

If Fermín leaves, the coaching staff will look for an internal replacement, either from the academy or with a similar profile in the market. In addition, the club plans to integrate Pedri and Fermin more as tactical replacements without exceeding the salary cap. Even so, Fermín's departure would leave a significant gap in midfield.

Barça's arsenal would lose the ability to get forward from the second line, but would gain liquidity to strengthen the wings or right back. It's a valued exchange, but risky both tactically and emotionally. In addition, possible competition with Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal would add offensive pressure to the team.

A player from Barcelona tries to dribble past an opponent on the field during a match.
Fermín in a match with Barça | @FCBarcelona

If PSG's offer stands, the offices at Camp Nou could close the deal during the first week of July. With €75 million (about $81 million) available, the sporting management would have room to operate calmly. Atlético and Chelsea are also keeping their negotiations active but haven't confirmed fixed figures.

Finally, if Fermín leaves, Barça will receive a significant income and will adjust its squad to the salary cap. On the other hand, it would lose one of the key prospects in its midfield. The decision will shape the sporting planning for 2025‑26 and determine whether they will strengthen the midfield or the offensive side.