rewrite this title Barcelona star Fermin says contract talks are going well and Catalan club has always been ‘his priority’

Fermin Lopez has confirmed he is ready to snub a number of admirers and commit his long-term future to Barcelona.

The 22-year-old has developed from a squad member to a key part of Hansi Flick’s best XI this season with a series of sparkling performances that mean Barca are still fighting on three fronts having already landed the Spanish Super Cup.

Their next challenge comes in the Champions League in which they must beat FC Copenhagen tomorrow night to stand any chance of a top-eight finish and automatic qualification for the round of 16.

Barca will be hoping Lopez will be at his brilliant best in a season in which only he and Lamine Yamal have reached 10 goals and 10 assists in all competitions for the club.

Chelsea’s loss is Barcelona’s gain

The Spain international was linked with a move away from Catalonia last summer with Chelsea interested but the London club’s failure to meet Barca’s asking price meant he stayed and has subsequently blossomed.

Reports this week suggest he is on the verge of extending his contract, which already runs until 2029, for a further two years.

He told Mundo Deportivo: “I want to be at Barça, it has always been my priority.

“The issue [of the new contract] is going well. There are some things left, but I intend to be at Barça, which is the most important thing for me. The truth is that I hope it will be done soon. I’m very happy.

“I have improved a lot since last year, I have matured.”

Of his record this season, he added: “It’s great to be able to help the team with goals and assists. It’s not a goal I set myself, but I know that because of the position in which I play I have to score goals and give assists to help the team. I’m very happy. I hope there can be many more.”