Joao Felix: Atletico Madrid planning to stall second loan move of Portuguese striker by FC Barcelona
FC Barcelona might have to start exploring for latest options to keep their star forward Joao Felix with them as his parent club Atletico Madrid might be looking to block a second loan move from the Catalans. Felix is currently with the defending champions and have been an integral part for Barca’s success, be it scoring goals or assisting his teammates.
Joao Felix- the Portuguese maestro
Joao Felix has been one of the vital cog for Xavi’s team this season, as a deadline day loan move from arch rivals Atletico Madrid sealing the deal for the Portuguese superstar. Since then, Felix has been a regular starter for the Catalan giants, and have played some crucial knocks in his short stint with the Blaugranas, with some notable goals coming against his parent club Atletico, when he celebrated in a rather humongous style by scoring the winner to putting the final nail in the coffin for FC Porto during their UEFA Champions League clash, riveting them to a Round of 16 advancement after a hiatus of three years. On top of that, Barcelona’s misfiring forwards in the form of Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha has indeed left Xavi with no option but to play Felix in almost every game, where the Portuguese has showcased his talent.
But, according to latest reports, Barcelona might have to explore further options to sign him permanently from Atletico Madrid, as Los Rojiblancos are set to block a potential loan move for the Portuguese by Barcelona, as he might have to be hijacked for a permanent move by the Blaugranas, in a bid to feature him in their colors for the next season.
A contract extension at Madrid
Prior to his loan move to the Catalan giants, Atletico had confirmed to extend Felix’s contract, vouching for his long-term stay at the Spanish capital. With his potential, Felix has impressed Barca scouts and is likely to get the nod for a permanent move which would bolster Barca’s attack, as latest recruit Vitor Roque would be added to their squad who would reinvigorate Barca’s attacking options next season. Although Felix has shown bouts of inconsistency among his playing abilities, he would undoubtedly be a top priority for Xavi next season.
A report in Diario AS has reported that Barca would be looking to extend their options of purchasing Felix on loan once again for the next season, with a buy-back clause to be initiated in 2025. Despite Barcelona’s financial constraints coming to play, Relevo has made claims that the Spanish capital side would reject any potential loan bids for their Portuguese superstar.
Atletico would be looking for a 15 million euros loan fee, with an option for a permanent transfer, but would not be prepared to hear any further loan bids from the Spanish champions for next season.
