Leadnaija
Manchester City are setting their sights on Barcelona’s rising star Fermin Lopez as a potential heir to Kevin De Bruyne, with Pep Guardiola preparing for a major midfield shake-up this summer.
According to Fichajes, Lopez has emerged as a serious candidate on City’s shortlist. With De Bruyne strongly hinting at an exit—his emotional social media post ahead of the Manchester Derby suggests it’ll be his last—the club is gearing up to enter the transfer market in search of a worthy successor.
While Florian Wirtz remains City’s top target, the German is leaning towards Bayern Munich, potentially forcing Guardiola to explore alternatives.
Lopez, 21, has impressed at Barcelona, despite limited game time. With just 12 starts in 32 appearances this season, the Catalan club still see him as a key piece for the future, reflected in his jaw-dropping €500 million release clause.
Barcelona won’t make it easy. They’re aware of the growing interest—Manchester United are also circling—but Guardiola’s admiration for young, technical midfielders could see City push hard.
If City want to land Lopez, they’ll need deep pockets and persuasive charm. But with De Bruyne’s era nearing its end, the hunt for the next midfield maestro is well and truly on.
