Fabrizio Romano Transfer News: Two Barca signings, Chelsea target special star, Man Utd guarantee

Robin Bairner

Updated: 10 Oct 2025 07:57 BST
5 min read

Football transfer news insider Fabrizio Romano has given big updates from Barcelona, Chelsea and Manchester United as the January transfer window approaches.

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Two new deals at Barcelona

Romano announced that Frenkie de Jong will sign a new contract for Barcelona, and he confirmed that Eric Garcia is set to join him in staying at Camp Nou in a more surprising move.

“It’s now just a matter of formal steps before it’s officially signed. Frenkie de Jong will stay at Barcelona until 2029 - done and confirmed by the player,” Romano said.

Compared

Frenkie de Jong

M, DM (C)

Barcelona

Frenkie de Jong

M, DM (C)

Barcelona

VS

Marc Casadó

DM, M (C)

Barcelona

Marc Casadó

DM, M (C)

Barcelona

€24.2M	ETV	€34.8M
€21.7M - €26.6M	ETV Range	€31.3M - €38.3M
28 years old (12 May, 1997)	Age	22 years old (14 Sep, 2003)
Netherlands	Nationality	Spain

“Also, for Barcelona fans, the club is working on a new deal for Eric Garcia. Discussions are very positive - Garcia is considered an important and versatile player by Hansi Flick, Deco, and the rest of the staff. He can cover centre-back, right-back when Kounde is unavailable, and even defensive midfield.

“His salary will be improved, and Barca are happy to continue with him.

“There are still some details to clarify, but the expectation is that Eric Garcia will also extend his contract.

“Interestingly, in January, Barca were close to selling Garcia to Como for around €9 million plus add-ons. That deal collapsed, and he has since become an important part of the squad.”

Casado and Fermin Lopez to Chelsea?

Romano has lifted the lid on two possible transfers between Barcelona and Chelsea. Marc Casado and Fermin Lopez have both been linked to the Stamford Bridge side, so what’s the substance behind the deals?

“In the last few days, there have been reports from England and Spain about Chelsea preparing an official bid for Marc Casadi, valued around €35–40 million. However, as of now, I’m not aware of any concrete negotiations, bids, or discussions between Chelsea and Barcelona for Casado,” Romano said.

“Casado did attract Premier League interest last summer, and after changing agents, some English clubs approached his new representatives. But Casado did not want to leave Barcelona, and Barcelona had no intention to sell him. Right now, he’s considered a key player for their project.

Compared

Marc Casadó

DM, M (C)

Barcelona

Marc Casadó

DM, M (C)

Barcelona

VS

Fermín López

M (C), AM (L)

Barcelona

Fermín López

M (C), AM (L)

Barcelona

€34.8M	ETV	€56.9M
€31.3M - €38.3M	ETV Range	€51.2M - €62.6M
22 years old (14 Sep, 2003)	Age	22 years old (11 May, 2003)
Spain	Nationality	Spain

“Now, regarding Fermin Lopez - Chelsea really appreciate him. They see great potential, as he can cover multiple roles and could develop into something special.

“Chelsea even made a late bid in the final days of the summer window, showing ambition and testing whether Fermin might be tempted. But Fermin was very clear: he wanted to stay at Barcelona.

“Barca didn’t want to sell him either - certainly not for €40 million. Any future move would involve a completely different valuation.”

Bruno Fernandes to Saudi: What’s going on?

Romano also revealed the truth behind links between the reports that suggest Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes will soon be heading for the Old Trafford exit door.

“There have been rumours claiming he already has a deal agreed with Saudi Pro League clubs for 2026. I can guarantee that’s not true. Nothing is agreed, nothing is signed,” he said.

“Saudi clubs have been interested in Bruno for years and continue to admire him. They would be ready to offer a huge salary whenever he decides to leave Europe.

“The future will be decided later, but the present is clear: Bruno is fully focused on United.”

© IMAGO - Bruno Fernandes: Focused on Man Utd

Man Utd updates: Maguire contract talks and Malacia future

Harry Maguire is in active talks with the Red Devils over signing a new deal with the club.

“Maguire’s current deal runs until June 2026 — United already triggered the one-year option earlier. Both sides want to continue together, but the financial terms need adjusting,” Romano said.

“United are happy with Maguire’s performances and leadership; Maguire is happy at the club and wants to stay. If they can agree on salary, a new deal could be signed soon. Otherwise, if no agreement is reached, Maguire would leave as a free agent in 2026.

“This is one to follow closely in the coming weeks.

“Regarding Tyrell Malacia, despite returning to first-team training, there are no plans for a new contract. He is expected to leave the club in 2026.”

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