Barcelona have long held an interest in securing the services of Joao Felix and now it seems the feeling is mutual.
In a wide-ranging interview with football insider Fabrizio Romano, Felix confirmed his desire to play for the Blaugrana stating “I would love to play for Barca”, and he continued to elaborate saying that if the move were to happen, it would be a dream come true.
🚨 EXCLUSIVE — João Félix statement on his future: “I’d love to play for Barça”.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 18, 2023
◉ “Barcelona has always been my first choice and I’d love to join Barça”.
◉ “It was always my dream since I was a kid”.
◉ “If it happens, it will be a dream come true for me”. pic.twitter.com/3zg9BiCDgO
Felix cost Atlético 120 million euros in 2019 when he joined from Benfica, but has failed to live up to the hype and expectation. In 96 appearances for the Colchoneros he’s scored just 25 times and is coming off a disappointing loan spell in the Premier League with Chelsea.
Felix had hoped to remain in London but Chelsea chose to close the door on the possibility, resulting in Felix returning to training with Diego Simeone’s side, and he hasn’t looked happy since.
He has spent time training away from the first team this summer and these comments have angered the management team at Atlético, who believe speaking like this about Barcelona is disrespectful to the club.
Barcelona is in no financial place for a Felix bid
Everyone is aware of the financial issues facing Barcelona and their need to remain within the parameters of financial fair play.
At this point, a move for Felix is not financially viable. It would take a major sale of someone like Ansu Fati, Raphinha or Ferran Torres before this even becomes a consideration.
Even then, chances are Barcelona would use the space created to try and sign a creative midfielder like Bernardo Silva.
Xavi has asked that his squad be strengthened in midfield and at right-back, and Barca has already secured the signing of Vitor Roque, who they see as the long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski.
So while Felix wants Barca and Barca have shown a historical interest in the Portuguese striker there are certain complications to any deal. One possibility is a loan with an obligation to buy, but it remains to be seen if Barca will dedicate resources to a striker knowing they need midfield reinforcements.