Guardiola asks Manchester City to sign Barcelona’s Fermín López
After De Bruyne’s departure, Guardiola eyes Barcelona’s breakout midfielder in major summer transfer move
Manchester City could be gearing up for another blockbuster signing this time from Barcelona’s rising star Fermín López. According to Fichajes, manager Pep Guardiola has personally requested the 22-year-old midfielder as a top target to fill the void left by Kevin De Bruyne, who recently signed with Napoli.
Fermín López: Guardiola’s Chosen One
Guardiola reportedly sees López as a perfect stylistic fit creative, versatile, and already used to high-pressure football under Barcelona’s demanding system. With De Bruyne leaving after a legendary stint at City, Guardiola is determined to find a worthy successor, and López ticks all the boxes.
Despite being just 22, the midfielder is no stranger to top-level competition. In the 2024–25 season, López featured in 46 matches, scoring 8 goals and assisting 9 times, proving to be a key piece under manager Hansi Flick especially during Barça’s domestic title run.
Transfer Tension at Camp Nou
While Barcelona are reluctant to lose Fermín, the club’s financial situation may force them to consider a sale especially as they eye Athletic Club’s Nico Williams as their marquee summer signing. Reports suggest that Barcelona could be open to negotiations if the price is right.
Fermín, a product of La Masia, has made a quick rise through the ranks, including a standout loan spell at Linares, where he scored 12 goals in 39 games. His development has attracted not only Manchester City but also interest from other Premier League clubs.
More Departures Coming for Barça?
López may not be the only major exit this summer. Veteran goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen is reportedly attracting attention from Manchester United, with Barça valuing the German international at around €20 million. A potential rebuild could be on the horizon at Camp Nou.
