Fermin Lopez has revealed that his loyalty to Barcelona was the driving force behind turning down Chelsea’s approach during the summer transfer window.
The 21-year-old midfielder, who has been with Barça since joining La Masia at just 12 years old, admitted that while Chelsea’s interest was flattering, his heart was always set on staying at Camp Nou.
“The Chelsea offer? In the end, my priority has always been to remain at Barça,” Lopez told TouchlineX. “I came here when I was 12. Of course, it’s nice when another club shows interest, but I’ve always wanted to succeed here.”
Lopez is under contract with Barcelona until 2029 and is seen as an important piece in Hansi Flick’s long-term plans for the squad.
Meanwhile, winger Antony has also shed light on his own decision-making after completing a permanent switch from Manchester United to Real Betis on deadline day.
Despite interest from Bayern Munich, Antony said he chose to honour the promise he had already made to Betis, who secured his signature in a £21.65 million deal following his loan spell.
“I spoke with Bayern—I don’t know if it was €7 million they offered—but I told them I had already given my word to Betis and that it was almost done,” Antony told Cadena COPE. “I wanted to respect that. I feel very happy here. More than five clubs contacted me, but my decision was clear.”
The 25-year-old was officially unveiled in Seville on Tuesday, ready to restart his career in La Liga after a turbulent time at Old Trafford.
