Barcelona coach Hansi Flick says he expects midfielder Fermin Lopez to remain at the club, despite reports linking the 22-year-old with a move to Chelsea.
Lopez, a product of La Masia, broke into the first team during the 2023/24 season, scoring eight goals in 46 appearances as Barça secured a domestic treble. Spanish media, however, suggest the midfielder is weighing up his future.
“I spoke with him, I am convinced that he will stay, but in the end I don’t know what happens — we have to wait,” Flick told reporters on Saturday. “I am really happy when the market is closed. He’s a really important player for us, his style is different to other players, and he can help us a lot.”
Flick acknowledged the uncertainty of the transfer market but stressed Lopez’s value as Barça pursue a La Liga title defence and their first Champions League crown since 2015.
Barcelona, meanwhile, suffered a setback ahead of Sunday’s league clash against Rayo Vallecano after midfielder Gavi withdrew from the squad with knee discomfort. Flick said the 20-year-old is expected to miss Spain’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers but could return against Valencia in mid-September.
“From yesterday to today it’s much better,” the coach added. “This is our plan, that he’s back for Valencia, but we have to see.”
