Transfer: Chelsea to sign Fermin Lopez from Barcelona in £43m deal

Chelsea is considering sending in a bid around £43 million for Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez, The Athletic reports.

Blues boss, Enzo Maresca, is looking to strengthen his midfield ahead of the transfer deadline.

They have established contact with Lopez’s agents, although there is no concrete offer yet.

The 22-year-old is a key member of Hansi Flick’s squad and is close to making 100 appearances for the LaLiga champions.

Lopez played in 46 matches, contributing eight goals and 10 assists in all competitions last season.

This included six goals and five assists in LaLiga, as Barcelona emerged Spanish champions.

This season, Lopez featured for 45 minutes as Barca opened the new campaign with a win against Real Mallorca.

However, he was left on the bench for their 3-2 victory over Levante at the weekend.

Transfer: Chelsea to sign Fermin Lopez from Barcelona in £43m deal