The Blues reportedly tabled a €40 million (£37m/$50m) bid, including potential add-ons, in a bid to bolster their midfield before the transfer window closed. While the offer prompted Lopez to consider his options, he ultimately chose to remain at Camp Nou, prioritising continuity and development under Barca’s management.
The midfielder made it clear that he had no intention of leaving the club he has supported since childhood. “I didn’t consider the offer and I don’t think they wanted to sell me either,” he said in an interview with RAC1. He further admitted that he had received several approaches from elsewhere, adding: “I received some, yes, but I don’t think any came from Real Madrid.”
Lopez underlined his deep ties to Barcelona, stressing that playing for the club was always his dream.
“I’ve been a Barca fan all my life. Since I was a child. Everything comes from an uncle of my mother’s, Miri, who has always been a Barca fan,” he explained. His attachment to the club influenced his stance on transfer speculation, as neither he nor Barca saw a move away as realistic. Despite not yet being an undisputed starter, the academy graduate has already shown his ability to impact key matches, including a brace against Valencia earlier in the season.
Lopez’s promising start to the season has been interrupted by injury, with the midfielder suffering a muscle issue in his left iliopsoas during Barca’s recent 3-0 win over Getafe. He left the pitch in tears, sparking fears of a lengthy absence. Initial tests, however, confirmed a three-week recovery timeline.
“The problem is not major,” he clarified, insisting he will return soon. Unfortunately for Barca, the setback means he will miss the Champions League showdown with Paris Saint-Germain, as well as upcoming La Liga fixtures against Oviedo and Real Sociedad.
The injury to Lopez comes at a difficult moment for Barca, who are also without Gavi, sidelined after being forced to undergo knee surgery. While Fermin is expected back by late October, his absence will test Flick’s depth options in midfield. Chelsea‘s interest has underlined Lopez’s rising reputation across Europe, but for now his focus remains on recovery and fighting for a bigger role at Camp Nou.
