That Barcelona have financial problems is something we all know. The club have been trying to resolve them in recent months and return to the 1:1 rule under La Liga's financial regulations, but their efforts have so far hit obstacles.
To get out of economic distress, a big sale will likely be necessary, which once again raises doubts about Fermin Lopez's future. Last summer, this young talent was already strongly linked with a departure from Spotify Camp Nou. Chelsea pushed hard to sign him at the time, but their efforts came to nothing. However, the London club's interest has not waned and could intensify again during the January transfer window.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Chelsea want to provide new head coach Liam Rosenior with immediate support in the transfer market. The Blues hierarchy's plan is ambitious. They want to sign Fermin and AC Milan star Rafael Leao alongside him. The entire operation could reach an astronomical €150m (£131m), a sum that could be difficult for Barcelona to turn down in their current situation.
Profile that fits Stamford Bridge project
Chelsea particularly value Fermin's specific playing skills. Scouts highlight his ability to beat defensive lines, his intensity off the ball and his competitive character. These qualities fit precisely into the profile that the sporting project at Stamford Bridge is looking for.
The London club's hierarchy are therefore prepared to significantly increase their summer offer, which was revealed at the time as a mere €40m (£35.1m) and was swept off the table by Barcelona.
While Barcelona were willing to discuss Fermin's departure in the summer if the right price came in, their stance midway through the season is, at least for now, much more closed off.
Key man in pursuit of titles
The reason is not only the fight on all fronts for trophies, but above all the fact that the Spain international is enjoying an excellent first half of the campaign. The hierarchy are aware that weakening the squad at this stage could jeopardise sporting objectives.
Fermin has become an indispensable part of the team. Across all competitions, he has already accumulated eight goals and eight assists in 20 matches, with three of those goal contributions coming in yesterday's 5-0 demolition of Athletic Bilbao.
Barcelona view him as a key player for the second half of the season, when they will attempt to win another La Liga title and also target their first Champions League triumph in eleven long years. Selling such a player would solve their economic problems but would create a huge hole in Hansi Flick's squad.
This article was originally published on Top Mercato.
