He's Joan Laporta's secret weapon, a box striker, and Fermín López is thrilled with his signing.

Joan Laporta has been working quietly for months. Barça president knows that Robert Lewandowski's possible departure requires him to stay ahead. That's why he has insisted on closely following a pure striker who moves confidently inside the box.

His profile contrasts with Barça's usual style, but that doesn't stop Joan Laporta. Fermin López, a homegrown player and great connoisseur of young talent, told the president that his signing would be a success. The attacking midfielder's recommendation adds weight to the file of the player they've been following from Portugal.

An operation marked by Fermin López's trust

While many betting lists include names like Julián Álvarez or Etta Eyong, Joan Laporta doesn't go with the flow. His attention is focused on Porto, where Samu Omorodion shines. The Spanish striker dominates the box, stands 6 ft. 4 in. (1.93 m) tall, and has already made a difference in Primeira Liga.

Fermin López played alongside Samu at the Olympic Games and knows that together they could make history at Barça. That personal connection strengthens Laporta's idea of signing him. The fact that Samu Omorodion is already at a top-level club makes the operation easier, although everyone acknowledges that fitting in at Barça won't be automatic.

The ideal signing for Barça and their tactical doubts

Barça needs a box striker to complement Ferran Torres. Number 7 has shown that he can play the center forward role when Lewandowski is absent, but the club's leaders believe he needs help. The arrival of a good finisher like Samu Omorodion would fit the plan, although his physique and running style into space aren't traditional for Barça.

Joan Laporta knows this, but he also trusts that a different profile will bring freshness. Fermin López values that this pure number 9 brings goals, presence, and the ability to finish under pressure. In that scenario, Barça could evolve their system without losing the combination and control essence that defines them.

Barça's strategic plan looking ahead to 2026

If Lewandowski leaves, Barça will face a clear offensive transition. Joan Laporta is in charge of that operation, and Fermin López brings vision from inside the locker room. The club could bet on a player with potential, who arrives at a moderate cost and with room for growth.

The signing would be Barça's bet to forgo high spending and build from the academy and smart market moves. If Samu Omorodion accepts the challenge, the Catalan club would take an important step toward their offensive renewal.