Atlético de Madrid is preparing a bold strategy to strengthen its squad for the upcoming season. The main target is the young talent from FC Barcelona. For many, despite not being a key piece in coach Hansi Flick's scheme, he deserves more minutes. Diego Simeone, Atlético's coach, sees him as a strategic addition to his team.
Fermín López, 21 years old, has had an outstanding season with Barcelona. According to Transfermarkt data, his market value has experienced changes. It has gone from 300,000 euros in August 2023 to 50 million in December 2024. This increase reflects his evolution and the interest he has sparked in high-level clubs.
Atlético de Madrid has shown quite concrete interest in the Barcelona player. According to reports, the colchonero club is willing to offer 70 million euros for his signing. Simeone values the young midfielder's versatility and talent, considering him a key piece to strengthen the rojiblanco midfield. The competition in Barcelona's midfield is fierce.
Gavi and Olmo Want Him
Players like Pedri, Gavi, and Dani Olmo occupy central positions in Hansi Flick's scheme, which has limited López's opportunities to establish himself as a starter. This situation has led the player to consider options that would allow him to have more minutes on the field. National coach Luis de la Fuente has warned the culé player about the importance of accumulating playing time to be considered in future Spanish national team drafts.
This recommendation could influence the culé player's decision to seek a new destination where he can fully develop and secure his presence in the national team. FC Barcelona, aware of the player's potential, is not willing to let him go easily. The Catalan club has set a minimum price of 50 million euros for his transfer.
Riquelme Could Be Part of the Deal
Additionally, according to some sources, Barça might be interested in including Rodrigo Riquelme, a young promise from Atlético, as part of the deal. Rodrigo Riquelme has had few opportunities under Simeone's orders and might welcome a change of scenery that allows him to develop in a different environment.
Barcelona's financial situation also plays a crucial role in this potential transfer. The club's economic difficulties might force the management to consider lucrative offers for some of its emerging talents. Atlético's proposal represents a significant financial opportunity that could relieve the blaugrana club's coffers.
From Atlético de Madrid's perspective, the incorporation of Fermín López would be a bet for the future. The young midfielder would bring freshness and dynamism to the rojiblanco midfield, aligning with Simeone's philosophy of having versatile and committed players. His strong desire to have more prominence on the field fits with Cholo Simeone's needs to strengthen his squad with young and ambitious talent.