Manchester City have entered talks to hijack Chelsea’s proposed move for Barcelona midfielder Fermín Lopez, according to transfer expert Graeme Bailey.
The Blues had submitted a £50 million bid for the 22-year-old, but City are now exploring a late swoop to secure the Spanish talent.
Lopez, hailed as “spectacular” by former Barca boss Xavi, has emerged as a top attacking midfield target after City faced setbacks in pursuing RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons, who appears set on joining Chelsea despite prolonged negotiations.
With Simons leaning towards Stamford Bridge, Pep Guardiola’s side have shifted focus to Lopez, whose camp has held preliminary discussions with multiple clubs, including City and Tottenham.
The Barcelona academy product has excelled since his first-team breakthrough, contributing 12 goals and assists in 42 appearances during the 2023-24 season and 18 goal involvements in 46 games last term.
Xavi previously praised Lopez’s “terrific shot from distance” and “spectacular mentality,” highlighting his adaptability and eagerness to learn.
City’s interest signals a strategic pivot as Guardiola seeks midfield reinforcement despite preferring a streamlined squad.
Lopez’s age, technical quality, and creativity align with the club’s long-term vision, offering a potential successor to Kevin De Bruyne, who departed earlier this summer.
Barcelona’s financial pressures could force a sale, though the player has not actively agitated for an exit.
Chelsea remain keen, but City’s intervention adds complexity to the race. The Catalans may prefer selling abroad rather than strengthening a domestic rival.
For now, talks are exploratory, but Lopez represents a viable alternative for City after missing out on Simons.
His £50 million valuation reflects his rising status, and a move to the Premier League could be finalized before the window closes.
