Barcelona midfielder holds crunch talks with Deco amidst Chelsea offer | OneFootball

Fermin Lopez’s future at Barcelona could be decided in the coming hours.

According to Gerard Romero on Catalunya Radio, the 22-year-old midfielder, accompanied by his representatives, is currently holding a meeting with director Deco to discuss a formal offer from Chelsea.

The key lies in whether Fermin chooses to accept the proposal – one that is financially very lucrative and equally appealing from a sporting perspective, with assurances of a starting role at Stamford Bridge.

Should the player express his desire to leave, the next move will be Barça’s. Head coach Hansi Flick has already made it clear he does not want to lose him.

As such, Barcelona maintain that Fermin is not for sale, and their stance remains firm. Should Chelsea press ahead, they will be told to shell out €90 million in order to sign the 22-year-old La Masia graduate.

Deco meeting with Fermin Lopez and his agents. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Fermin made his breakthrough during the 2023/24 campaign under Xavi Hernandez after spending a season on loan at Deportivo Linares.

Having become an important member of the team, the young attacking midfielder went through a brief period of lull once Hansi Flick took over last year, before re-establishing himself as a key player.

The academy ace has always maintained that he wants to stay and succeed at Barcelona.

However, the prospect of reduced game-time in a World Cup year, coupled with the prominent role and lucrative contract being offered at Chelsea, have made him consider the possibility of an exit.

With the meeting underway between Fermin, his agents, and Deco, it remains to be seen how things turn out.

Chelsea, notably, will face Barcelona in the league phase of this season’s UEFA Champions League following the draw held earlier today.