FC Barcelona continues working on planning their squad for the next season, but a new threat has emerged from the Premier League. Two of the most important clubs in England have set their sights on one of the standout players of the season at Barça.
Tottenham and Arsenal have initiated contacts to acquire the midfielder, and Mikel Arteta is willing to do everything possible to sign him. Arsenal's coach has asked his board to make an effort. The 'Gunners' have replied with an offer of 80 million euros, surpassing Tottenham's initial proposal of 40M.
Barça, In a Delicate Situation
Fermín López has been one of Barça's great revelations this season. Despite not being an undisputed starter, his performance has been exceptional when Flick has given him minutes. His ability to reach the area, his intensity in pressing, and his goal-scoring instinct have turned the young player into a key asset.
However, his great performance has not gone unnoticed outside of Spain. Premier League teams have been closely following his evolution, and now they are ready to take the definitive step.
Tottenham was the first to make an offer of 40 million euros. But Arsenal didn't take long to respond, doubling the amount and offering 80M to close the signing as soon as possible.
What Will Barça Do?
Barça didn't have in mind to sell Fermín López, but the club's economic situation could make them reconsider their stance. 80 million euros is a difficult amount to refuse, especially considering that the player arrived for free from La Masia.
Meanwhile, Flick values Fermín highly and knows he is a player who fits perfectly into his system. The German coach has made it clear that he doesn't want to lose young talent. The board will have to make a decision between retaining the player or accepting an irresistible offer.
Mikel Arteta sees Fermín López as the ideal signing to strengthen his midfield. The Spanish coach believes that the Andalusian has the necessary qualities to shine in the Premier League:
Dynamism and ability to reach the area, defensive intensity and sacrifice in pressing, goal-scoring ability from the second line, and versatility to play in various positions. Arsenal is looking for a profile like Fermín's to add more offensive options and strengthen their project for the next season.
Fermín López, Open to a Change of Scenery?
So far, Fermín has always shown his desire to succeed at Barça. However, the possibility of playing in the Premier League with a more important role could make him reconsider his future.
The player knows that at Barça he is not an undisputed starter and that the competition in the midfield is fierce. With Pedri, Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, and Gündogan, his opportunities to play in key matches could be limited.
Interest from the Premier has set off alarms in Barça's locker room. Players like Lamine Yamal and Gavi have expressed their desire for Fermín to continue with the team. They know he is a player with a lot of future, and losing him would be a hard blow for the squad.
The final word will be Barça's. Will they reject the offer and bet on Fermín's future, or will they accept Arsenal's 80 million euros?
The transfer market is heating up and the Premier is willing to take one of Camp Nou's jewels.