FC Barcelona is experiencing hours of maximum tension in the transfer market. The future of Fermín López remains uncertain, with Chelsea insisting on signing him and Barça demanding a minimum of 70 million to open talks. That uncertainty has led Joan Laporta and Deco to activate an unexpected move to secure the squad before the window closes.
The Andalusian midfielder hasn't asked to leave, but his name is the absolute protagonist in the offices. Chelsea has already tempted him by doubling his salary and guaranteeing him a leading role at Stamford Bridge. However, both the club and the player are keeping silent while they analyze all the possibilities that this complex situation offers.
At Barça, they know they can't depend solely on what happens with Fermín. That's why the sporting management has set a goal to make a statement in the market. The idea is to close a last-minute signing that fits into Hansi Flick's project and provides immediate attacking freshness.
The name of the reinforcement Barça is pursuing isn't new in Spanish soccer. Both Valencia and Betis had shown real interest in acquiring his services this very summer. Both clubs saw in him a market opportunity due to his affordable release clause and his evident potential.
However, the lack of liquidity in Valencia's coffers and Betis's budget limitations worked against them. Neither of the two could take the definitive step to secure the player. That indecision has been taken advantage of by Barça, which is willing to execute the operation before it's too late.
The footballer, aware that his progression needs a leap to a bigger stage, views the Barça interest favorably. Sharing a locker room with Lamine Yamal, Pedri, or Pau Cubarsí is a huge incentive. His entourage has already conveyed that he'd prefer to land at a club with European ambitions rather than stay in a mid-table project.
Hansi Flick has directly told Deco that he needs more attacking options. The comeback against Levante showed Lamine Yamal's talent, but also the lack of alternatives when the academy product isn't inspired. The German coach insists that they can't depend solely on Pedri or Raphinha to generate constant danger.
The sporting management, aware of that need, has moved quietly to avoid leaks. The plan is to close the deal before his release clause changes, since starting September 1, the price will rise considerably. Barça wants to take advantage of the situation and get ahead of other European teams that have also closely followed his development.
The signing not only responds to an immediate sporting need, but also to a strategic vision. At just 21 years old, the player fits the club's policy of betting on young talent with room for growth. In addition, his salary is manageable within the complicated framework of financial fair play.
Finally, the protagonist of this operation is Etta Eyong, a Villarreal striker who has dazzled at the start of this season. The Cameroonian, already compared to Samuel Eto'o for his power and goal-scoring instinct, has been on Barça's radar for months.
His current release clause allows him to be signed for just 10 million euros, but on September 1, the figure will increase. That's why Barça is speeding up negotiations with the intention of closing the deal immediately.
Valencia and Betis dreamed of having him wear their colors, but they're out of the race. Now, Etta Eyong is getting closer and closer to Camp Nou and could become the last-minute surprise signing to strengthen the attack.