Manchester City are already laying the groundwork for the next season, with Pep Guardiola prioritizing the search for a suitable successor to Kevin De Bruyne.
The Belgian playmaker has been instrumental in City’s dominance over the years, but with age and recurring injuries affecting his consistency—and his contract nearing expiration—the club is preparing for a future without him.
Reports from Spanish outlet El Nacional suggest that Guardiola has surprisingly set his sights on Barcelona’s promising young midfielder, Fermín López.
The 21-year-old has impressed with his dynamism, goal-scoring instincts, and versatility, making him a standout talent within the Catalan club. His technical abilities and high-intensity playing style have caught Guardiola’s attention, as the City boss believes López could seamlessly adapt to his tactical system.
Although not a regular starter, López has made a notable impact under Barcelona’s head coach, Hansi Flick. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively has been recognized, and City have been monitoring his development closely, seeing him as a potential long-term solution in midfield.
However, acquiring López will be a challenging task. Barcelona regard him as an essential part of their future plans and are unwilling to let him leave. With players like Pedri, Gavi, and Ilkay Gündogan ahead of him in the pecking order, López has had to compete for playing time, but he remains a valued asset.
Currently contracted with Barcelona until 2029, López has a massive €400 million release clause, which makes a direct purchase unlikely. While City could offer a more lucrative salary than he currently earns at Camp Nou, López has previously turned down better financial deals to stay at his boyhood club. His priority remains securing a long-term role at Barcelona.
The club’s management, led by Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco, are aware of City’s interest but are confident in López’s commitment. However, if his playing time diminishes—especially with the potential signing of Dani Olmo—he may reconsider his future.
Guardiola sees López as a player with pressing ability, intelligent link-up play, and attacking instincts reminiscent of a young De Bruyne. City’s recruitment team is exploring potential ways to negotiate a structured deal rather than triggering his expensive release clause, particularly given Barcelona’s financial situation.
Guardiola has previously succeeded in bringing top Spanish talents like Rodri and Ferran Torres to the Premier League. If López struggles for consistent minutes at Barcelona, a move to City, where he could play a more prominent role, may become an enticing prospect.
The next few months will be decisive in determining López’s future. If he remains a secondary option at Barcelona, City may intensify their efforts to sign him.
However, should Flick integrate him more into the starting lineup, López might be inclined to stay. Guardiola’s pursuit of López has already generated significant interest, setting the stage for what could be one of the summer’s most intriguing transfer sagas.
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