Overview

• Chelsea’s opening proposal of roughly €50m was rejected, and multiple reports indicate the Premier League club is prepared to increase its offer toward Barcelona’s valuation.
• Barcelona are seeking about €70m for López, with local reporting noting that a sale would ease the club’s salary cap and registration issues before Monday’s window closes.
• Spanish outlet Marca reports López is seriously considering Chelsea, though Football España says his priority remains staying under Hansi Flick.
• Coverage in England and Spain says Chelsea are ready to significantly improve the midfielder’s wages, with some reports citing figures up to about £13m per year.
• Reports from Spain also describe a recent dressing-room dispute and outside advisory pressure related to a potential move, details that are discussed publicly but not widely corroborated.