Arsenal are officially in the race for Barcelona midfield sensation Fermin Lopez, with Manchester United reportedly readying a €70 million bid. The 22-year-old Spain international is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after young midfielders in Europe and now both Premier League giants are circling.
According to Sebastien Vidal and Sport, United are planning to go big with a £61m (€70m) offer, which could match Barcelona’s reported asking price. While Chelsea have also made enquiries, Arsenal have stepped up their own interest in recent days, making direct contact with the player’s camp.
Arsenal in talks to sign Fermin Lopez but Romano warns of resistance
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has offered a more cautious update, insisting on his YouTube channel that “Barcelona don’t want to sell” and that Fermin remains fully focused on his current club.
Romano added that unless the player personally asks to leave, Barca are not entertaining offers. However, that stance could shift quickly. The Catalan giants remain under intense financial pressure and history has shown that no player is truly unsellable under those conditions.
Berta monitoring Fermin as Arsenal search for one final midfield piece
Andrea Berta has already delivered six top signings this summer, but a versatile attacking midfielder is still on the agenda. Fermin Lopez, who can operate as both a central and advanced midfielder, fits the profile of what Mikel Arteta is looking for: high work rate, vertical passing, and relentless energy off the ball.
Lopez was recently praised by former Spain U21 manager Santi Denia for his “commitment and generosity”, and former Barcelona winger Pedro hailed him as “non-stop” in his movement. The 22-year-old scored key goals for Xavi’s side last season and looks primed for a breakout year whether in La Liga or the Premier League.
Arsenal face battle with United and Chelsea for signature
While Manchester United are currently in pole position and ready to meet Barca’s valuation, Arsenal’s pitch may be more compelling. With Martin Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Declan Rice providing a stable midfield core, Fermin would be joining a side with a clear identity and title ambitions.
Chelsea’s interest remains in the early stages, but Arsenal’s long-term project and London-based pull make them a serious threat in this transfer battle.
Author Opinion
Whether Barcelona stand firm or fold under pressure remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Arsenal are watching closely, and if the price is right, Andrea Berta may make a move. As the transfer window heats up, Fermin Lopez could become the final statement signing of Arsenal’s summer.
