Chelsea bid for Fermin Lopez was a signal – whenever he leaves Barcelona, they’ll be waiting | OneFootball

Chelsea spent the latter days of the summer transfer window chasing Fermin Lopez despite all signs indicating they would not be able to get him to Stamford Bridge.

The Blues submitted a bid for Lopez that was considered insufficient by Barcelona’s hierarchy. Chelsea reportedly knew the bid wouldn’t change Barca or the player’s position.

Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has revealed that the Blues submitted the bid to indicate to Lopez that they are interested in him whenever he decides to leave Barcelona.

Lopez caught the eye last season for Barca after bagging eight goals and 10 assists in 46 appearances, despite mainly being a bench option.

He has struggled to break into the starting XI this term, but made the most of his first start of the season against Valencia, netting a fantastic brace.

The 22-year-old possesses a diverse range of skills in his arsenal. He can score and create, and he works ridiculously hard. He can also play in several positions, giving his managers options.

The Spain international remains keen on staying at Barcelona, but the Club World Cup champions still want him, if he ever decides to switch camps.

However, Chelsea must weigh up whether such a pursuit makes sense in the long run.

The club already boasts one of the brightest young midfielders in South America, Kendry Paez, who is gaining valuable first-team experience on loan at Strasbourg.

The Ecuadorian teenager has been tipped to become a central figure at Stamford Bridge. His development could be stalled if a high-profile addition like Lopez arrives ahead of him.

Chelsea’s long-term project is built on youth, and blocking Paez’s pathway with another expensive midfield signing would be a questionable step.