Manchester City has launched an unprecedented offensive after its unexpected elimination from the Club World Cup. Pep Guardiola, visibly upset by his squad's performance, has demanded a strong reaction. His request has been clear: he wants to sign from FC Barcelona.
The Catalan coach has directly pointed to one of the players with the most potential in Hansi Flick's team. He believes that he has talent, competitive maturity, and a perfect profile to adapt to the Premier League. City's sporting management has already received the order to go all in.
Barça has been informed of the interest and hasn't shown itself unwilling to negotiate. Although the club doesn't want to part with any key young player, its financial situation forces it to consider certain proposals. If City comes with a massive offer, the scenario will open up.
The amount being discussed is astronomical. The English club would be willing to reach €100 million. This figure is hard for any club in the world to refuse, including Barça.
City moves ahead and prepares its move
Barça has strengthened its squad with the arrival of Joan García and hopes to finalize Nico Williams's soon. With these moves, some current squad members could see their prominence affected. Especially those who still haven't secured a starting spot.
Guardiola has identified a specific gap in his squad after its international elimination. The coach wants more creativity, runs from deep, and technical ability in the final third. He believes that he has found his ideal player in the current blaugrana squad.
In Manchester, they value not only his performance but also his long-term potential. They believe that he hasn't reached his ceiling yet and that, with the right environment, he can break out in the Premier League. Moreover, the player would welcome a substantial improvement in terms.
Meanwhile, Barça is still debating internally whether to prioritize his continuity or opt for a strategic sale. Joan Laporta and Deco don't want to rush, but they're aware that €100 million would provide a lot of room for maneuver.
Flick's position and the player's plans
Hansi Flick has been clear in his public statements: he trusts young players and wants them to keep growing at the club. However, he also knows that he can't promise guaranteed minutes to everyone in such a competitive squad. Nico Williams's arrival could change the balance.
The player City is targeting has delivered outstanding performances in several stretches of the last season. He has excelled in key matches, added goals and assists, and earned a place in the rotation. Even so, he doesn't have a guaranteed undisputed starting role.
Those close to him acknowledge that there is interest from other clubs, but no decision has been made yet. They value Barça's trust, but also the terms and prominence he could have elsewhere. City's offer, in that sense, is irresistible.
Guardiola has already spoken with him, explained his plan, his role in the team, and how he sees him in the medium term. The player, impressed by the project, is considering it. But the final decision will depend on what Barça says.
The gem Guardiola wants in his squad
The footballer for whom Manchester City is willing to pay €100 million is Fermín López. The 21-year-old attacking midfielder has been one of Barça's great revelations in the post-Busquets era. Now, he could become the most expensive transfer in the club's history.
The English club believes that he can play both as a central midfielder and as an attacking midfielder, and even on the wing if needed. His versatility, vision, and goal-scoring ability make him a top target. Barça, though reluctant, has already set an asking price between €75 million and €100 million, depending on variables.
Fermín is calmly considering his future, knowing that the European champion doesn't come knocking every day. Guardiola wants him, City needs him... Barça has the final say.