Arsenal have taken a significant move in the summer transfer market by making an “official first step” to sign Barcelona’s rising star, with reports in Spain confirming that Mikel Arteta has personally requested the £51 million-rated player as a top priority for the club’s summer reinforcements.
The Gunners are reportedly targeting Barcelona midfielder Fermín López, a 21-year-old talent who impressed last season with his energy, technical flair, and eye for goal. According to multiple Spanish outlets, Arsenal have now formally contacted Barcelona to express their interest and inquire about the terms of a potential deal. This move follows what is being described as a “direct request” from manager Mikel Arteta, who views López as an ideal fit for his evolving midfield setup.
Arteta’s Influence Behind the Move
Mikel Arteta has long been an admirer of young, technically-gifted players capable of adapting to different roles in midfield. With his emphasis on positional play, intensity, and transitional speed, López fits the profile Arteta is building at the Emirates. Sources close to the club say that the Arsenal boss was the one who greenlit the initial approach, seeing López as a player who could either partner or rotate with Martin Ødegaard while also contributing defensively.
Arteta is said to have been “impressed by López’s versatility and maturity” and has urged the board to move quickly before other European giants act. With Euro 2024 taking the spotlight, the Gunners are looking to complete major deals early to avoid inflated prices or last-minute bidding wars.
Barcelona’s Stance and Financial Pressure
Barcelona, currently grappling with Financial Fair Play constraints and salary cap limitations, are believed to be open to listening to offers for several fringe and emerging talents. While Fermín López enjoyed increased playing time under Xavi last season, the Catalan club may be willing to sell if the right offer arrives—especially if it helps finance their summer objectives or ease the wage bill.
The reported price tag of £51 million (€60 million) reflects both López’s potential and Barça’s attempt to maximize his value. Arsenal, well aware of Barça’s financial pressures, may look to negotiate the fee or include performance-related add-ons or a player swap to make the deal more feasible.
What Fermín López Offers Arsenal
Fermín López made his breakthrough at Barcelona with a series of standout performances in La Liga and the Champions League. He scored several crucial goals and showcased excellent ball control, a knack for late runs into the box, and a strong work rate—traits Arteta is keen to integrate into Arsenal’s midfield.
Still just 21, López has the ability to play in multiple roles: as a No. 8, an advanced midfielder, or even wide when needed. His style has drawn comparisons to former Arsenal favorite Santi Cazorla, due to his two-footedness, agility, and ability to dictate tempo.
Signing López would signal Arsenal’s long-term investment in creative midfield options, especially with Thomas Partey linked with a summer exit and Jorginho nearing the twilight of his career.
Arsenal’s Summer Transfer Strategy
This potential move reflects Arsenal’s growing ambition to build a deep and flexible squad capable of challenging Manchester City and competing effectively in the Champions League. After finishing second in the Premier League for two seasons running, the Gunners are targeting quality additions rather than quantity.
Beyond López, Arsenal are also monitoring striker options, with names like Viktor Gyökeres, Benjamin Šeško (now staying at RB Leipzig), and Joshua Zirkzee being considered. A new defender is also on the radar, especially with Jakub Kiwior’s future uncertain.
Edu Gaspar, the club’s sporting director, is reportedly leading talks with Barcelona and remains confident that the club can present a competitive package both financially and in terms of playing time to attract López to north London.
What’s Next?
With Arsenal having now made their intentions clear, the ball is in Barcelona’s court. Whether they are willing to sell Fermín López will depend on several factors—including their own transfer plans, manager Hansi Flick’s view on the player, and whether alternatives can be sourced.
If a deal is to be done, Arsenal are likely to push for a swift resolution. The Gunners want to have their squad close to finalised before preseason begins in mid-July, and bringing in a technically polished player like Fermín López early could be a key piece in their 2025 title push.
The coming days will be crucial as discussions intensify—and with Arteta’s personal involvement, this transfer co
uld gain serious traction very quickly.
