If a recent report from the Spanish outlet Fichajes is believed to be true, Sunderland are eyeing a mega-money move for young Barcelona sensation Fermin Lopez. The Black Cats have shown their financial firepower since securing a dramatic top-flight return, and are now preparing an astronomical €80m bid for the midfield attacker.
The 22-year-old Spanish international progressed through the academy ranks of El Campillo, Recreativo and Betis before joining the esteemed La Masia youth setup in 2016. He was loaned out at Linares in the third division, and his productive stint in senior football was rewarded by Xavi, the former Barca boss, who handed him a first-team status since the 2023-24 season.
Lopez has seized his opportunities as a playmaker, netting 25 goals and setting up 15 times in 99 appearances for the Spanish giants [stats via Transfermarket]. He has demonstrated his flexibility as a ‘number 10’, central midfielder, as well as on the left-hand side under Hansi Flick in his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation.
Despite his excellence for the Catalans, the substantial transfer debt could force them to sanction the move to the Stadium of Light. The Premier League newcomers snapped up thirteen new names in the summer window, but took little time to attune to the grind and demands of the English game. They are currently fourth in the league standings and have shown signs of a top-half finish rather than fighting for survival, unlike their fellow promoted outfits, Leeds United and Burnley.
How Lopez Would Slot In Sunderland Midfield
Regis Le Bris has found the perfect balance between youth and experience, particularly in the middle of the park. 33-year-old Granit Xhaka has been a revelation, and so is Noah Sadiki, the 20-year-old DR Congo international. The squad depth has allowed the French boss to tweak his set-up and system, but the arrival of Lopez would enhance their quality and creative spark as they prepare to lock horns with the league’s heavyweights persistently.
The Spaniard is hailed for his exquisite passing and shooting traits. His defence-splitting through balls, swift one-twos, long-range efforts, dribbling and poaching attributes make him a perfect fit for the attacking midfield role.
Sunderland have Chris Rigg, who has featured at times as an advanced playmaker, but the 18-year-old must not be rushed week in and week out, even though he has a very high ceiling and was a mainstay of their long-awaited promotion. He would flourish as the understudy to Lopez, as the Blaugrana ace has already proved his worth in the biggest stage of world football.
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