Barcelona is reportedly considering a surprise player swap with Chelsea. The proposed deal would see Spanish midfielder Fermin López traded for French forward Christopher Nkunku.
Barcelona Looking for Creative Transfer Solutions
Barcelona continues to search for attacking reinforcements this summer. However, several top targets are slipping away. Nico Williams has renewed with Athletic Club, Liverpool’s valuation of Luis Díaz is deemed too high, and there are doubts about Marcus Rashford’s current form.
As a result, Barça may be exploring unconventional transfer options. One of them involves midfielder Fermin López, a player who has impressed under new head coach Hansi Flick.
Fermin López Valued by Flick – but Not Untouchable
Despite being seen as an energetic and versatile midfield asset, Fermin López is not considered untouchable. With a crowded midfield including Pedri, Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, and İlkay Gündoğan, López could become a transfer chip if the right opportunity arises.
According to Sky Sport, Barcelona sporting director Deco is intrigued by Christopher Nkunku, and talks of a potential player swap are emerging behind the scenes. Interestingly, Nkunku’s agent is Pini Zahavi, a well-known name at Camp Nou due to past dealings with the club.
Chelsea Interested in Fermin López
Spanish journalist Andrés Quiroz claims that Chelsea are seriously interested in Fermin López and may be willing to include Nkunku as part of the deal. While Quiroz is not considered the most reliable source in Spanish football journalism, the rumor echoes a previous report published by Mundo Deportivo over a month ago.
Nkunku, 27, is not a traditional winger. Although he has played on the left flank, he is more comfortable as a second striker or attacking midfielder. His recent seasons have been disrupted by injuries, and his performances have not lived up to earlier expectations.
A Risky Move for Both Clubs?
A potential swap between Fermin López and Christopher Nkunku would be a high-stakes gamble. Barça needs to cut costs and is open to deals that ease financial pressure. But trading a young, promising midfielder for a player with a mixed recent record might divide opinions among fans and insiders alike.
Moreover, Nkunku’s fit in Flick’s system remains questionable. His style doesn’t fully align with Barcelona’s need for width and consistent availability. Like Rashford, he may carry more past hype than current form.
Should the Rumors Be Trusted?
While the story is gaining traction, it’s important to treat it with caution. Andrés Quiroz is not known for access to credible sources inside Chelsea. His reports often lean into speculation rather than verified information. The timing also raises eyebrows, considering similar reports surfaced weeks ago in Catalan media.
Still, in a transfer window full of financial limitations and unexpected decisions, such a swap deal — however unlikely — cannot be ruled out entirely.
