Fermin Lopez, who scored a brace and provided an assist in Barcelona dominant 6-0 victory over Valencia on Sunday night has opened up on his decision to stay with the LaLiga champions, despite interest from Chelsea late in the summer transfer window.
Speculation swirled around the 22-year-old during the final week of the window, with the Blues holding talks with the Catalan giants over the Spain international as reported by Softfootball.
Chelsea made initial contact in late August regarding a move for the attacking midfielder, who was a key part of Hansi Flick’s side last season, and discussions were held over submitting a £40million bid which was way lower than Barcelona’s valuation of the Spain International.
According to Fabrizio Romano via his X handle, the Barcelona midfielder confirmed that he never considered leaving the club despite late summer interest from Chelsea. Addressing the speculation, he stressed his commitment to the Blaugrana, declaring that there were rumors, but his intention was always to stay. The post reads:
Fermín on Chelsea proposal: I never had any doubts about staying at Barcelona.There were speculations, but in the end I always wanted to stay here. And I will fight to stay here for many years.
With this, Fermin Lopez not only shut down speculation about his future but also strengthened his status as one of the players to watch in Barcelona’s new era.
His display against Valencia proved that, regardless of external rumors, his present and immediate future remain firmly tied to the Blaugrana.
Fermín made 46 appearances in Barcelona’s 2024–25 campaign, helping the Catalans win La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup. The 22-year-old produced a career-high 17 goal contributions despite having to fight for a consistent place in Flick’s starting eleven.
This season, the Spaniard has featured in three of Barcelona’s four La Liga games so far, with two starts, and he netted twice in the 6-0 demolition of Valencia.
The win against Valencia sees Barca bounce back from a disappointing draw to Rayo before the international break, and Lopez says Hansi Flick’s side must continue in the same vein. Barcelona now turn their attentions to the Champions League and a trip to Newcastle on Thursday.
