Chelsea's ambitious attempt to sign Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez has been rebuffed by the Catalan club. The Blues proposed a deal valued at approximately £60 million, which included their forward Christopher Nkunku, aiming to bring the 22-year-old Euro 2024 winner to Stamford Bridge. However, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has made it clear that Lopez is a crucial part of the club's future plans and is not available for transfer.

Lopez, who contributed 18 goals and assists across all competitions last season, is seen as integral to Barcelona's midfield. The club's stance is that he would only be allowed to leave if he personally requested more consistent playing time.

On the other hand, Nkunku has struggled to make an impact at Chelsea since his £52 million move from RB Leipzig in 2023, making only nine Premier League starts under manager Enzo Maresca. Despite his limited contributions, Chelsea included him in the proposed swap deal, which Barcelona ultimately declined.

Barcelona are reportedly focusing their efforts on acquiring Liverpool's Luis Díaz to strengthen their attacking options. Meanwhile, Chelsea have already secured the signing of Ipswich striker Liam Delap for £30 million and have decided against making Jadon Sancho's loan move permanent, opting instead to pay Manchester United a £5 million penalty.

Additionally, Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who spent the season on loan at Bournemouth, is being targeted by Arsenal as a backup option due to his £5 million release clause.

Chelsea's rejected bid for Fermin Lopez highlights their ongoing efforts to bolster their midfield, but Barcelona's firm stance suggests the Spanish midfielder will remain at Camp Nou for the foreseeable future.