Fermin Lopez, the 22-year-old Barcelona midfielder, has dismissed rumors that he was ever close to leaving for the Premier League this summer. He insists he never doubted his place in the Catalan club’s roster, despite the reported interest.

Chelsea may be setting their sights on a 26-year-old Liverpool star in the upcoming January window. While the summer transfer period just ended, an exclusive report indicates that the club is already planning its next move. Competition from other interested parties could make this a heated winter pursuit.

Cardiff City head coach Brian Barry-Murphy revealed it is “impossible to say” if the club will add or lose more players before the transfer window closes. Meanwhile, center-back Jesper Daland’s absence from the squad during the 3-0 EFL Cup victory over Cheltenham has fueled rumors of his imminent departure.