Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans suffer Joshua Kimmich blow, Fermin Lopez extends stay, and more - October 23, 2024
Barcelona host Bayern Munich in the Champions League at the Estadio Olimpic Lluis Companys on Wednesday, October 23. Hansi Flick's team have one win and one defeat in the European tournament this season.
Meanwhile, the Catalan giants have suffered a setback in pursuing Joshua Kimmich. Elsewhere, Fermin Lopez has extended his stay with the LaLiga giants.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from October 23, 2024.
Barcelona suffer Joshua Kimmich blow
According to acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano, Joshua Kimmich could sign a new deal with Bayern Munich. The German midfielder is in the final year of his contract with the Bavarians and is yet to sign an extension.
Barcelona are long-term admirers of the 29-year-old and are linked with a Bosman move for Kimmich next summer. Xavi wanted the player in the past and Hansi Flick is also keen for a reunion at Camp Nou.
Kimmich enjoyed great success under the German manager during their time together at the Allianz Arena. Flick used Kimmich as an emergency right-back and the player's versatility has also appealed to the Catalans.
The LaLiga giants would ideally like the German midfielder to fill Sergio Busquets' shoes at the club. However, Barcelona also lack a proper backup to Jules Kounde and Kimmich could cover for the Frenchman if required.
Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Real Madrid have also been linked with a move for the German. However, the player is already engaged in talks for a new deal with Bayern Munich.
The Bundesliga giants are eager to extend his stay and Kimmich is also ready to continue his association with the club.
Fermin Lopez extends stay at Camp Nou, says Fabrizio Romano
According to acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano, Fermin Lopez has committed his future to Barcelona. The Spanish midfielder exploded into the scenes under Xavi last season, registering 11 goals and one assist from 43 games.
Lopez is sidelined with an injury but remains highly valued at Camp Nou. The Catalans are working to protect their young talents from the prying eyes of clubs across the continent.
The LaLiga giants are pleased with the 21-year-old's efforts and have decided to end any speculation regarding his future. Lopez's previous contract ran until 2027 and had a €400m release clause.
The new contract will include a salary hike and an updated release clause and will keep him at the club until 2029. An official announcement from Barcelona is expected soon.
Barca receive a boost in pursuit of Carney Chukwuemeka
Chelsea are willing to enter talks to offload Carney Chukwuemeka, according to club insider Simon Phillips. The report adds that Barcelona are eyeing the Englishman with interest.
Chukwuemeka was heavily linked with an exit from Stamford Bridge over the summer but ended up staying. The 21-year-old has struggled for chances this season, registering just 14 minutes of action from one League Cup appearance against Barrow AFC.
The Blues are ready to let him go and a move to Camp Nou could appeal to all parties. Phillips has added that an initial contact regarding a move has been made.
However, the London giants are not interested in a loan deal and will only consider a permanent exit. The player is under contract until 2028, so a lot could depend on Chelsea's asking price.