Manchester clubs turned down new FC Barcelona star

Transfers can be extremely complicated with a lot of moving parts, and usually, we never find out the details. But thanks to a former Athletico Madrid legend, some details have been revealed about Joao Felix’s move to FC Barcelona.

Paulo Futre who made over 160 appearances for the red and white of Madrid stopped by Cadena SER’s El Larguero and had a lot to say on the transfer of Joao Felix.

The former Benfica man was ostracised at Athletico Madrid following some disagreements with coach Diego Simeone, which led to Felix publically declaring his dream of playing for Barcelona.

Earlier this week we heard from Atlético president Enrique Cerezo, who claimed that Felix failed to adapt at Madrid, but everyone appreciates that he is a fantastic player with a ton of talent. Talent that is now on full-show at Barcelona.

Manchester United & Manchester City turned down Joao Felix’s transfer

During his interview, Paulo Futre revealed that he called Jorge Mendes, the agent of Joao Felix to accuse him of pushing his client to make the Barcelona statements.

Instead, he revealed that there were conversations with both Manchester clubs, but neither team wanted to sign the Portuguese striker, probably because he didn’t set the world alight while on loan at Chelsea last season.

"“I called Mendes and told him that the statements that João had made were his work and he told me no. We argued on the phone and he told me that he had spoken to Manchester United. I verified what he told me because I have friends and it was true. Afterwards, he spoke with Manchester City, I also checked and they didn’t want João either .”"

I can understand Manchester City passing on Felix considering their strength in depth, and Manchester United signed Danish striker Rasmus Højlund to partner with Marcos Rashford in attack. Although they would probably take Felix now considering his form, and their struggles with Jadon Sancho and Anthony.

He also revealed that Joao vetoed an agreement between Atleti and Aston Villa that was made at the start of July:

"“The only team that has wanted him has been Monchi and Emery’s Aston Villa. Joao said no when there was an agreement between Atleti and Aston Villa at the beginning of July”"

Everything happens for a reason. We’re thankful that those Premier League options remained just that.