Manchester United and Aston Villa are looking to raid Barcelona for the services of Fermin Lopez, but the midfielder is keen to stay.
Fermin Lopez’s sensational rise at Barcelona and his consistent performances for their first team have put him on the radar of multiple top clubs outside Spain. According to Fichajes, Manchester United and Aston Villa have both set their sights on the Spanish international.
Fermin Lopez made the move to La Masia from the Real Betis youth setup in the summer of 2016. He went up the ranks at some pace and officially got promoted to Barcelona’s first team in the summer of 2023.
In his debut campaign with the senior side, the central midfielder featured in a total of 42 matches. He contributed towards 12 goals and racked up close to 2,000 minutes. The Spaniard seems to have taken his game to the next level this season as he already has 10 goal contributions in his 25 outings.
Premier League clubs push for Fermin Lopez
Apart from his usual central midfield role, the 21-year-old has featured on the left flank as well as a number ten when needed. His impressive performances and massive potential have put him on the radar of Manchester United and Aston Villa.
Manchester United seek more quality in the centre of the park as they look to revive their fortunes. Meanwhile, Aston Villa are looking to further strengthen their squad with Lopez’s addition as they have only gone from strength to strength under Unai Emery.
Both clubs have put forward proposals that double the Spanish midfielder’s current salary at the Spanish club. They are willing to table an offer worth €70 million to prise Fermin Lopez away from the Catalan giants, who have him protected with a massive €500 million release clause.
Lopez wants Barcelona stay
Any potential transfer without Barcelona’s approval is impossible. For now, they are not considering parting ways with Fermin Lopez even though his departure could help them financially. More importantly, the Spanish midfielder has no interest in making the move to England. He has straightaway rejected offers from both clubs.
The Spaniard has already made it clear to people close to him and Barcelona’s board that he only wants to stay at the Catalan club and establish himself as a key figure in their first team. Both Premier League clubs have not given up yet and could return for him in the future transfer windows.
