Chelsea ignore deadline and ‘INSIST’ on €90m star after missing out on Xavi Simons

Chelsea are scrambling to secure the signature of another attacking player after missing out on Xavi Simons.

The Netherlands international star had agreed personal terms with the Stamford Bridge outfit, but as they were unable to agree terms with RB Leipzig, he is now destined to sign for Tottenham Hotspur in an unwelcome twist.

Now the Blues have set their sights on Barcelona forward Fermin Lopez, with Enzo Maresca’s side “insisting” that they want to snap up the Spain international star.

A deal looks complicated, however. Even putting aside the outlandish rumour from Spain that Newcastle are ready to offer €100 million for the forward, Barcelona’s asking price is far above what Chelsea are likely willing to pay.

Fermin has had a €90m price tag slapped on his head, and even with the Catalan side struggling to register all their players due to domestic Financial Fair Play (FFP) restrictions, Mundo Deportivo reports that Barca are holding firm with their demand.

Chelsea, meanwhile, have so far only come up with a €50m bid, which falls well short of expectation.

“They consider the Barca youth product as a priority and they have him right at the top of their transfer shortlist,” MD reports. “The pressure is strong; they want him no matter what. But Barcelona’s response remains resounding: Fermin is not for sale.”

In order to reinforce that message to Chelsea, the Camp Nou side bumped their asking price from €70m on Thursday to €90m on Friday.

Key deadline ignored

Chelsea are seeking to force Fermin’s hand, which is something the attacker does not appreciate. He is said to be going through this period “with some discomfort” but has maintained that he wants to remain with Barcelona.

Earlier this week, the Premier League side gave him a 48-hour deadline to respond to their offer. It is reported that Fermin did not take that step.

Fermin looks likely to remain at Barcelona and the Blues are putting contingency plans in place. They are set to agree a bizarre loan deal for Brighton youngster Facundo Buonanotte that will not contain a purchase option or obligation.

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