Fermin Lopez vows to stay at Barcelona as La Liga champions look to make major sale amid Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Al-Ahli interest

According to Mundo Deportivo, Lopez has made it clear that he wants to remain at Barca this summer, despite notable interest from top European clubs and a massive €80 million (£68m/$92m) offer from Saudi side Al-Hilal. The 22-year-old La Masia product is reportedly on the radar of Bayern, Manchester City, Chelsea and Al-Hilal. Chelsea even proposed a swap deal involving Christopher Nkunku, which Barca rejected. However, Fermin remains committed to continuing his development at the club he’s always dreamed of succeeding with.

The financial situation of the Catalan giants remains delicate. Selling Fermín could ease the pressure around La Liga’s financial fair play rules and help register players like Joan Garcia or sign targets such as Nico Williams. But letting go of a homegrown player with a €500 million (£425m/$575m) release clause would contradict the club’s long-term rebuilding vision under Hansi Flick. Despite limited minutes under Xavi, Flick reportedly sees the Spanish midfielder as a unique midfield profile within the squad and wants to retain him.

Blaugrana boss Flick is firmly backing Fermin to stay. Although he didn’t feature prominently last season, the German tactician considers the midfielder tactically valuable. His endorsement has become a key reason behind Fermin’s desire to stay put.

Fermin renewed his contract in 2023 until June 2029 with a €500 million release clause. As of now, Lopez is staying at the Catalan club. However, with Barca needing financial flexibility to register new players, the situation remains fluid. Al-Hilal’s offer hasn’t been ruled out entirely, and Bayern’s interest persists. Yet, the player’s intent, backed by Flick’s support, could tilt the balance in favour of continuity.