Player "affected" by 40m Chelsea transfer bid, says Fabrizio Romano

"Barcelona attacking midfielder Fermin Lopez was reportedly affected by the Chelsea transfer saga that emerged this summer, according to Fabrizio Romano. Speaking on YouTube, the Italian journalist explained that the Blues made a 40m bid to Barca for Lopez, though of course the deal didn't end up going through. Barcelona will be glad to have kept this exciting talent, with Lopez starting to show his best form in recent games, even if the distraction of Chelsea's transfer interest was an issue at first."

"Romano has suggested Lopez was affected by the speculation, though now he is more relaxed and focused. Chelsea missed out on Fermin Lopez transfer See below for Romano's analysis, with the reporter also making it very clear that the Spaniard was never looking to leave the Nou Camp. It seems Chelsea's interest has been there for some time, and although the bid would be distracting for anyone, it seems it was never in the player's mind to leave."

"In fairness, however, Chelsea spent big on other attacking midfield players this summer, bringing in Jamie Gittens, Estevao Willian and Alejandro Garnacho. Facundo Buonanotte also joined CFC on loan from Brighton, while there is now also understood to be interest in the likes of Morgan Rogers, Kenan Yildiz and Malick Fofana. That follows Chelsea also missing out on another target, Xavi Simons, so it seems clear that the west London giants remain keen on adding another player to that area of their squad."

A €40m bid from Chelsea to Barcelona for Fermin López was submitted but the move did not materialize. The transfer speculation initially affected López’s focus and performances, but he has since become more relaxed and begun showing improved form. López remained committed to Barcelona and was not seeking a move away from the Nou Camp. Chelsea invested in other attacking midfield options instead, signing Jamie Gittens, Estevao Willian and Alejandro Garnacho and bringing Facundo Buonanotte on loan from Brighton. Chelsea continue to track targets such as Morgan Rogers, Kenan Yildiz and Malick Fofana and may pursue López again in future.

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