Pep Guardiola Pushing for €75m Move as Man City Target 22-Year-Old Barcelona La Masia Gem

Man City Step Up Interest in Barcelona’s La Masia Talent Amid £110m Summer Overhaul

Manchester City’s summer rebuild is well underway after what many viewed as an underwhelming 2024/25 campaign, and Pep Guardiola shows no signs of slowing down.

City have already splashed around £110 million to bring in the likes of Tijani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, Rayan Aït-Nouri, and goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli, as Guardiola looks to freshen up his squad ahead of the new season. However, their shock early exit from the Club World Cup at the hands of Saudi side Al Hilal has seemingly sparked an even greater sense of urgency within the club hierarchy.

Now, City are being linked with a potential double raid on Barcelona, with reports suggesting the Premier League champions have joined the race to sign highly-rated La Masia graduate Fermin Lopez.

Barcelona’s Financial Pressure Opens the Door

Barcelona, still grappling with financial challenges, may be compelled to make a significant sale this summer if they wish to secure the signing of Nico Williams, who has emerged as a top target following his impressive displays for Spain. The Catalan giants are also eager to register Williams and Joan Garcia, their latest signing, but balancing the books remains a key hurdle.

That financial strain could put Fermin Lopez in the shop window, although the midfielder is not believed to be pushing for an exit. Lopez is reportedly keen to cement a regular first-team role at the Camp Nou next season.

Premier League Battle Brewing for La Masia Star

Despite his desire to stay, speculation over Lopez’s future continues to build. Chelsea and Manchester United have both been credited with an interest, and now, according to fresh reports from Spain, Manchester City have entered the race for the 21-year-old.

With Guardiola known for his admiration of La Masia talents, it’s no surprise that City are exploring the possibility of adding Lopez to their midfield ranks, especially with the club bracing for potential departures in that area over the next 12 months.

What Happens Next?

While Lopez may prefer to remain at Barcelona, the club’s financial predicament,t coupled with significant Premier League interest, means the situation could evolve rapidly. With the transfer window heating up and City actively pursuing reinforcements, more updates are expected to emerge in the coming weeks.

For now, all eyes remain on Barcelona’s next moves and whether Pep Guardiola’s summer overhaul could yet include one of La Masia’s brightest prospects.