Barcelona star Fermin Lopez has rejected rumours that he considered leaving the club this summer following a Premier League offer.
The 22-year-old attracted strong transfer interest, but in the end, he chose to stay with the reigning La Liga champions.
The midfielder has previously stated that a continuation in Catalonia was always his priority and in an interview with Mundo Deportivo, he revealed his plan was always to remain at Barcelona, although appreciated the interest Chelsea showed in him.
“My priority has always been to be at Barca. I arrived when I was 12 years old, it was my dream to be here, to reach the first team. It’s always a compliment when there’s interest from other clubs, but the truth is that I always had the idea of staying at Barça and being able to succeed here.
“Ever since I arrived in the first team I have felt loved by the Catalans. I’m grateful for that and to be an important player for Barça.”
Lopez has featured in three of Barcelona’s four La Liga games so far this season, with two starts, and he netted twice in the 6-0 demolition of Valencia.
After his brace against Los Che, Lopez reiterated his commitment to the cause, and claimed he never doubted Hansi Flick’s faith in him in his plans.
“I have always wanted to be here and I will fight to be here for many years,” as per Marca.
“The message from the manager is the same as last year. Keep moving forward with intensity and humility. We’re on the right path and we must continue like this.
“I never doubted being here. There was always speculation over my future at Barcelona. All of that is part of football. I was very calm about it all and I’m very happy to be here.”
