Manchester City are already preparing for next season, with Pep Guardiola prioritizing the search for Kevin De Bruyne’s ideal replacement. The Belgian playmaker has been a key figure in City’s dominance, but with age and injuries affecting his performances and his contract nearing its end, the club is planning for life without him.
According to Spanish outlet El Nacional, Guardiola has identified an unexpected target—Barcelona’s young midfielder Fermín López. The Spaniard has impressed with his energy, goal-scoring ability, and versatility, making him a standout prospect at the Catalan club. His work ethic and technical skills have caught Guardiola’s attention, as he sees López as a player who could seamlessly fit into City’s tactical system.
Despite not being a regular starter, López has made an impact under Hansi Flick, showcasing his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively. City have been closely monitoring his progress, believing he has the potential to develop into a top playmaker.
However, securing López’s signature will be challenging. Barcelona consider him a vital part of their long-term plans and have no intention of letting him go. With midfield talents like Pedri, Gavi, and Ilkay Gündogan in the squad, López has had to fight for playing time, but he remains a valuable asset for the club.
The 21-year-old is under contract with Barcelona until 2029, with a massive €400 million release clause. While City could offer a significantly higher salary than what he currently earns at Camp Nou, López has previously rejected lucrative offers to stay at his boyhood club, as his priority is to establish himself at Barcelona.
Barcelona’s management, led by Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco, are aware of City’s interest but remain confident in López’s commitment. However, if his playing time becomes more limited—especially with the possible arrival of Dani Olmo next season—he might reconsider his future.
For Guardiola, López’s pressing ability, link-up play, and attacking instincts resemble a young De Bruyne, making him an ideal candidate to develop into City’s next midfield leader. City’s recruitment team is exploring the possibility of a transfer, though meeting his release clause is unrealistic. Instead, they may attempt to negotiate a structured deal, testing Barcelona’s resolve given their financial struggles.
Guardiola has successfully attracted top Spanish talents to the Premier League before, with players like Rodri and Ferran Torres making the move to Manchester. If López struggles for regular minutes at Barcelona, the prospect of a more prominent role at City could become increasingly appealing.
City’s need for a De Bruyne successor is pressing, as their current midfield options—Phil Foden, Mateo Kovačić, and Bernardo Silva—do not fully replicate his skill set. López, under Guardiola’s guidance, could be shaped into the ideal replacement, ensuring City’s midfield remains dominant.
The coming months will be crucial in determining López’s future. If he remains a secondary option at Barcelona, City may intensify their pursuit. However, if Flick integrates him more into the starting lineup, his desire to stay at Camp Nou may strengthen.
Guardiola’s interest in López has raised eyebrows across Europe, setting up what could become one of the most intriguing transfer sagas of the summer. Whether City will succeed in luring him away remains to be seen, but Guardiola has clearly identified his next big midfield target.
