BlueCo have now held direct conversations with the agents of a “top player” to convince him to join Chelsea, it has been revealed.
Blues set for frantic finish to deadline day
There are yet to be any new arrivals at Stamford Bridge on deadline day, but after a recent twist, a high-profile departure could be on the cards, with Nicholas Jackson back on his way to Bayern Munich, after the deal was called off on Sunday.
The Blues have reached an agreement with Sunderland to recall Marc Guiu from his loan, with the Spaniard set to deputise for Joao Pedro, should Jackson depart, with Liam Delap set for a spell on the sidelines due to a hamstring injury.
Another area in which Enzo Maresca has been keen to strengthen is attacking midfield, with a deal to sign Brighton & Hove Albion’s Facundo Buonanotte already agreed, while the manager has also held talks over a deal for Barcelona’s Fermin Lopez.
That is according to journalist Ben Jacobs (via TEAMtalk), with the reporter stating BlueCo have personally been in contact with Lopez’s agents to convince him to move to Stamford Bridge, saying: “Fermin Lopez’s situation is that Chelsea predominantly in the last week worked on the player side only, Enzo Maresca spoke to the player directly, and there were several conversations between the agent of Fermin Lopez and the Chelsea hierarchy.
“That followed a bid which was around €40million. The player would have to go to Barcelona and say I want out – that hasn’t happened.
“Number two, Chelsea’s offer would have to be in excess of €60million. So I don’t think this one is live or likely at the moment, but like I say with Chelsea, you can never say never.”
"Top player" Lopez could be fantastic late signing
Scout Jacek Kulig has provided an overview of the Barca star’s abilities in the past, describing him as an “advanced playmaker”, who is similar to former Chelsea attacking midfielder Oscar.
Much like the Brazilian, the 22-year-old flourishes when it comes to setting up chances for his teammates, having amassed ten assists for Barcelona in all competitions last season, while also providing eight goals.
Given the Spaniard’s age, and the fact he has already established himself as a first-team regular for Barcelona, it could be worth shelling out the €60m (£52m) required to get a deal over the line, but they will have to move swiftly.
With the transfer window closing at 7pm, Chelsea are at risk of missing out on Lopez, which would be disappointing, given that he has been described as a “top player” by former Barcelona boss Xavi.
