With their sights set on potentially signing Nico Williams by the 2025–26 season, Barcelona is reportedly open to selling midfielder Fermín López for a significant fee to one of several interested Premier League clubs.
Despite ongoing efforts over recent years, Barcelona continues to face a delicate economic situation, particularly when trying to sign and register players while adhering to La Liga and UEFA’s financial regulations.
For the Catalan club to successfully complete another major signing this summer, they will need to offload players to free up salary space and generate revenue through player sales, ensuring compliance with La Liga’s financial sustainability rules.
This challenging financial backdrop opens the possibility for the club to consider the potential departure of one of their recent La Masia academy graduates who has rapidly gained prominence thanks to impressive performances over the last two seasons: Fermín López.
Spanish publication Sport indicates that Barcelona would review offers for Fermín`s potential sale, but only if the price offered is substantial enough to be considered attractive to all parties involved.
The 22-year-old attacking midfielder was a frequent part of Hansi Flick’s initial campaign at Barcelona, though primarily in a backup role. He made 46 appearances during the 2024–25 season, starting 19 games, and contributed 17 goals. He even featured in the video promoting the club’s 2025-26 home kit.
Dani Olmo is currently expected to be the first-choice player in the most advanced central midfield position within Flick’s favored 4-2-3-1 formation. Should the transfer for Nico Williams materialize, Fermín’s potential playing time could be further reduced due to increased competition in the attacking lineup, requiring tactical adjustments.
These factors have led Barcelona to consider potentially selling the player who is both a 2024 Euros participant and an Olympic champion. Reports suggest that major Premier League clubs including Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United, and potentially even Manchester City, could be tempted to make a move for Fermín if he becomes available. Furthermore, clubs from the financially powerful Saudi Pro League might also attempt to attract the young La Masia talent.
Last October, Fermín signed a contract extension with the Catalans valid until 2029, which includes a release clause set at €500 million ($590 million). While it is highly unlikely any team would trigger this clause, Barcelona may be open to negotiating for a fair transfer fee.
Despite Fermín repeatedly expressing his deep affection for his boyhood club, a compelling project from another significant European team that guarantees him substantial playing time and a key role could potentially appeal to him more than staying at Barcelona with a potentially diminished status.
Although this potential transfer scenario might seem difficult to envision, it could ultimately turn out to be advantageous for everyone involved.
