Barcelona hoping to extend Portuguese star’s stay in January

BARCELONA, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 28: Joao Felix of FC Barcelona celebrates their team's second goal during the UEFA Champions League match between FC Barcelona and FC Porto at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on November 28, 2023 in Barcelona, Spain.

Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images

The January transfer window is right around the corner for Barcelona, and things could get exciting. Despite their financial restraints, Barcelona has several matters including various players that they hope to settle in January. While there will be arrivals for La Blaugrana it seems, some future dealings could also be sorted.

One player whose future at the club continues to be questioned is Joao Felix. Currently on loan from fellow Spanish side Atletico Madrid, his continuity has been given contradictory reports in recent days. However, the latest update states that his stay is to be extended.

According to SPORT, Barcelona plans to ensure that Felix remains with the Catalan club. Of course, the first challenge that arrives will be in the form of Atletico Madrid. The side from Madrid will likely wish to get a transfer fee in return, but Barcelona has a rather different idea.

According to the report, the Catalans are actively pursuing an extended loan arrangement with Atletico Madrid. This proposed extension aims to encompass an extra season on loan, potentially incorporating a purchase option by the culmination of the 2025 season.

Besides, the club has explored alternative strategies, including the prospect of player swaps However, that approach does not seem viable at the moment.

One player that Diego Simeone really seems to like is Barcelona forward Ferran Torres, but the will of the player is another key detail in such operations. As for Joao Felix, the Portuguese forward remains committed to continuing at Barcelona.

Moreover, he is even willing to overlook any other offers in favor of remaining at the Catalan club. Consequently, his agent, Jorge Mendes, is now progressing the negotiations for his extended stay.

The super agent has a solid relationship with both Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, so he hopes to ensure that Felix’s continuity can be confirmed through another loan.

However, one player that Mendes reportedly warns Barcelona about is Joao Cancelo. In the case of the Portuguese fullback, Mendes believes that a prolonged loan may not be possible. As such, the most likely outcome will have to be Barcelona needing to pay a transfer fee.