BREAKING NEWS: Reports coming live from Anfield, Liverpool want to bring €80m Barcelona Anfield at Anfield.
Reports from Spain indicate Liverpool could soon compete for the signature of Barcelona’s promising young midfielder, Fermin Lopez, who’s recently garnered high praise from one of Barcelona’s legendary players. While Liverpool bolstered their midfield last summer with four new signings, they have yet to add anyone new in that area since. Their efforts to sign Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi at the beginning of this season ultimately didn’t materialize, leaving the Reds to potentially explore other midfield options in La Liga.
Richard Hughes, Liverpool’s sporting director, seems to be considering a move for Lopez, a 21-year-old talent currently under contract with Barcelona until 2027. According to Fichajes, Liverpool aren’t the only club eyeing him—Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain are also reportedly interested. Barcelona might be open to letting the youngster go if a suitable offer, likely around €80 million (£66.9 million), is presented in 2024.
Lopez is viewed as a playmaker who could complement Liverpool’s current midfield, specifically Hungarian playmaker Dominik Szoboszlai. FBref’s analysis has highlighted similarities between Lopez and Szoboszlai in playing style, suggesting that the young Spaniard could seamlessly integrate into Liverpool’s lineup as an advanced creator who adds extra attacking depth.
Lopez first caught attention during Barcelona’s 2023/24 preseason. Then-manager Xavi Hernandez was quick to praise the young midfielder, describing him as “talented,” “full of personality,” and the “complete package” on the pitch, words that hold significant weight coming from one of Barcelona’s all-time greats. Lopez’s versatility also stands out; he primarily plays centrally but can adapt to a more advanced role as a number 10 or even as a left-wing option.
Although he hasn’t scored yet this season, Lopez’s previous campaign saw him net 11 goals across 42 appearances, an impressive haul for a midfielder. FBref further underscores his attacking qualities by ranking him in the top 1% of midfielders in Europe’s five major leagues for non-penalty goals, expected goals (xG) from open play, and shots per 90 minutes. He also ranks among the top 2% for touches in the opposition penalty area, emphasizing his forward-oriented playstyle and attacking instincts.
Lopez’s technical attributes are well-noted, including a powerful shot and precise passing abilities, making him a continuous threat in the final third. His knack for getting into scoring positions, coupled with his ability to dictate play, suggests he could thrive as an offensive focal point for Liverpool if they manage to secure him.
While the prospect of signing Lopez is still speculative, and Liverpool fans should be cautious until reports are confirmed by more local sources, his arrival would bring a dynamic new element to Arne Slot’s midfield. His youth, coupled with an impressive attacking profile, means he could be a long-term asset for the Reds. The potential addition of Lopez would reinforce Liverpool’s midfield options, providing further creative support and depth alongside players like Szoboszlai.
Should Liverpool succeed in bringing Lopez to Anfield, they would be landing an energetic young midfielder with a powerful presence in attack—a player who’s already demonstrated his potential at one of the world’s biggest clubs and would be eager to make his mark in the Premier League.
