Barcelona Tries to Lock Down Rising Star Lopez as Interest Grows
23 January 2026
Barça's management grows anxious about a star's future after recent standout form, per a Catalan press report.
Sport newspaper today says several clubs are closely watching Barça's developing midfielder Fermin Lopez, prompting the club to move quickly to secure his future.
Barça has already begun work on renewing Lopez's contract, convinced that his notable progress won't go unnoticed in the market.
Although negotiations are still in early stages, there is mutual interest, with a club-proposed package including a substantial salary increase and a two-year extension.
Barça Session
In this frame, yesterday Thursday a significant session brought together the club's sporting management and the player's agents, Xavier Jimenez and Joshua Barnett.
Lopez himself shows no hesitation about his future, reiterating his desire to stay with Barça and become a pillar for the team in coming years, feeling valued and trusted with a clearer role.
He has been in a strong form, notably in the last Champions League match, when he scored twice against Slavia Prague, in a 4-2 Barca win.
Despite no rush to consummate the renewal, especially since the contract runs until 2029, both sides prefer to advance calmly, with a shared vision to continue together.
Punchline 1: If Lopez keeps growing, Barca may need a longer contract to fit his goals.
Punchline 2: And if they lock him to 2031, the merch shop will need a bigger jersey.
