Chelsea have ruled out a late move for Fermin Lopez, as Facundo Buonanotte could be their final move before the window ends.

According to The Athletic, Chelsea have ruled out a late move to bring Fermin Lopez. Barcelona turned down an official bid from the Blues for the 22-year-old recently, and it appears the West London giants may not pursue the Spaniard anymore, as Facundo Buonanotte appears to be their last move of this window.

Chelsea had been scrambling for some key signings in the last few days to improve their attacking setup. Having backed away from following through on their concrete interest in Xavi Simons, who has since joined Tottenham, Chelsea did sign Alejandro Garnacho.

Over the last few days, they held concrete interest in Fermin Lopez of Barcelona, and rumours were stating they could persuade the player to make the move. The issues with finances over at the Catalan club did provide some more encouragement for one big name to leave, with the 22-year-old seen as the likely outgoing on a big-money deal.

Chelsea made an official bid amounting to €40 million, which Barcelona did not accept. However, the Catalan side insisted behind the scenes that a sale could be possible if Fermin Lopez was open to leaving the club. Chelsea remained optimistic about concluding the transfer, but things have changed since.

The Blues have signed Facundo Buonanotte, and they have ruled out a move for Lopez in the coming hours of the transfer window. Hence, the Spanish playmaker is now expected to stay at Barcelona for the foreseeable future, and it remains to be seen whether Chelsea returns with another approach in the near future.

Chelsea made their decision with Facundo Buonanotte

Buonanotte has joined Chelsea in a loan deal from Brighton & Hove Albion. The move will be a dry loan as the Seagulls refused to entertain the prospect of a buy option, as they seemingly trust the player for the future, or at least he will perform to a level that sees his value increase later on.

Chelsea made their choice with Buonanotte, and given their borderline flirtation with UEFA’s FFP, they might have decided to stay away from spending more than what is required. On quality, they might have preferred the 22-year-old Barcelona playmaker, but they will now utliise Buonanotte in the No.10 position apart from Cole Palmer.