Chelsea are reportedly ‘prepared’ to launch a huge formal proposal to sign Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez, according to Spanish newspaper Transfers.
Since moving to Stamford Bridge from Manchester City in 2023, Cole Palmer has established himself as an undisputed starter in the creative midfield position.
He has put in impressive performances in the Premier League over the past two seasons but has struggled to match that form so far this season due to a persistent groin injury.
The Blues signed Facundo Buonanotte from Brighton & Hove Albion on loan last summer to support Palmer. However, after struggling to find regular game time in the first half of this season, the Argentine has been sent back to the Seagulls and is now on loan at Leeds United until the end of the season.
It’s been recently reported that Palmer has not been able to settle in London and is homesick. So he may be open to a return to Manchester at the end of the season, with the Red Devils his preferred destination.
Therefore, it appears that Chelsea have started exploring the possibilities of signing a new attacking midfielder as a potential replacement for Palmer if he eventually leaves.
Now, Transfers state that Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior has identified Lopez as the ‘priority’ option, and the Blues believe he has the necessary attributes to thrive in the Premier League after closely monitoring his development.
López to Chelsea
The 22-year-old’s existing contract runs until 2029, so Barcelona are in no rush to sell him and do not want to part with a talented youth player like him.
However, Chelsea are ‘willing’ to launch a formal £87 million proposal to convince the Blaugrana to raise money, and amid their financial troubles it may be difficult to turn down a big bid like this.
Lopez is a CAM by nature, but can provide coverage on the flanks when necessary. He showed glimpses of his great potential last season but has taken his game to another level this campaign. In seventeen starts in all competitions so far, the Spaniard has scored ten goals and registered ten assists.
He is a top class player and could be a big step for Chelsea if they can finally buy him this year.
#Chelsea #prepared #big #bid #sign #Fermin #Lopez