Chelsea fulfilled almost all of their transfer requirements this summer. They have signed two strikers, two wingers, a defender and strengthened other positions as well. However, the Blues have also missed out on some targets. While some of them have joined rival clubs like Mohammed Kudus, Hugo Ekitike and Xavi Simons, others have decided to extend their stay at their current clubs and can be pursued in the next transfer window.
Previously, it was reported that Chelsea are interested in Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez. The club even submitted an official offer for the player late in the summer transfer window.
The deal failed to materialise and with the transfer window over, the Blues will have to wait till January or next summer for any deal. But even then, it looks like the door has been closed on a move to Chelsea by Lopez himself.
Lopez appears taken a firm decision regarding his future amid transfer rumours. According to Mundo Deportivo (via Fabrizio Romano), the Spanish international said:
"I see myself completing my contract until 2029 at Barcelona. I don't want to leave.
“I love this club."
Chelsea target Fermin Lopez wishes to stay at Barcelona to fulfil his contract till 2029
Chelsea lost the race to sign Simons despite having agreed personal terms with the player. He ended up joining Tottenham instead. Since then, the club shifted their focus to Lopez as a potential candidate. But it looks like that door is shut for now.
Chelsea shouldn’t be too concerned as of now. They already possess one of the best midfields in Europe with Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, Romeo Lavia, Andrey Santos and Cole Palmer.
It’s true that the squad is thin in terms of natural number 10s, more so with the departure of Christopher Nkunku and Joao Felix. But the Blues have brought in Facundo Buonanotte for the position. Moreover, Joao Pedro and Estevao are also capable of playing that role.
Anyway, Chelsea have done incredibly in this window and have a really strong squad. They should now get their mind back to the pitch with multiple trophies up for grabs including the Champions League.