Atletico Madrid seems to have given the nod to talented forward Joao Felix for a potential move to Barcelona in the upcoming summer transfer window. This 23-year-old football sensation has been at the center of much speculation ever since he returned to Atletico after a brief loan stint with Chelsea last season, during which he managed to score just four goals in 20 appearances.
As the 2023-24 campaign approaches, Felix is carefully considering his options, with clubs from both England and Spain showing interest in securing his services. While Chelsea has turned down the opportunity to re-sign him, other Premier League clubs such as Manchester United and Aston Villa have reportedly shown interest in the Portuguese international. But it’s the reigning La Liga champions, Barcelona, who have emerged as the frontrunners for Felix’s signature.
According to respected journalist Fabrizio Romano, Felix has expressed a strong desire to join Barcelona this summer. This move would fulfill a childhood dream for the young attacker, who is eager to don the iconic colors of Camp Nou. Despite having signed a contract extension with Atletico until June 2027 in January, Spanish news outlet AS suggests that the club is now willing to let him go to Barcelona.
The potential deal between the two clubs is believed to be progressing well, with both Atletico and Barcelona hoping to finalize it within the week. Due to Barcelona’s well-publicized financial constraints, it is likely that Felix will join on an initial loan deal, with an option or obligation to buy him later.
Interestingly, Felix’s desire to move to Barcelona has not been met with universal approval, especially among Atletico fans. Some were seen expressing their frustration by vandalizing a plaque of the forward outside the Wanda Metropolitano stadium.
Back in 2019, Felix was acquired by Atletico in a record-breaking £114 million deal from Benfica, and he was highly touted as one of the brightest prospects in the global football scene at the time. However, he has struggled to live up to those lofty expectations at Wanda Metropolitano, slipping down the pecking order under head coach Diego Simeone, and starting only seven La Liga matches in the first half of the last season.
During his time at Atletico, Felix has contributed 34 goals and 18 assists in 131 appearances across all competitions. Additionally, on the international stage, he has represented Portugal in 31 games, netting five goals for his country.
As Barcelona continues to reshape its squad, Felix’s potential arrival could add a much-needed spark to their attacking lineup. So far this summer, the Catalan giants have already made three signings, securing Ilkay Gundogan and Inigo Martinez on free transfers from Manchester City and Athletic Bilbao, respectively, and bringing in Oriel Romeu from Girona for around £3 million.