Joao Felix has been the hero at FC Barcelona during the entire last week as he scored the winning goals in both the matches against Porto, which paved the way for the Catalans to the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, and Atletico Madrid, his parent club.
As was clear with the gestures of the forward before and especially during the match, there is no desire in him to return to Atletico Madrid.
Furthermore, keeping his recent performances in view, the Catalan club wants to move forward for the full purchase of the Portuguese international. The club is looking to come to an agreement with Atletico in the early days of the next year, either for a full purchase or for another loan.
Barcelona are looking to arrive at an agreement with Atletico as soon as possible because they believe the Mattress Makers will significantly increase their asking price for the forward if he keeps on scoring decisive goals.
Work for this purpose has already begun at Barcelona, mainly through Felix’s agent, Jorge Mendes. Mendes knows that Barcelona want to keep Felix, and will do everything in his power to ensure his client does not have to return to Atletico Madrid against his wishes.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have a clear plan if Atletico Madrid does not low down their valuation of the player, i.e., following the precedent set by Atletico Madrid themselves when they signed Antione Griezmann.
The Frenchman’s entire saga between Barcelona and Atletico saw multiple extended loan deals until finally, the Catalans had to give in and lose such a valuable signing for a significantly lowered fee due to his insistence of playing for the Madrid-based outfit.
Atletico currently value the Portuguese star at €80 million, but if this valuation is not reduced to €30-40 million, in accordance with Barcelona’s estimation, the Catalans will rely on Felix’s iron will to play only for the Blaugranes and thus negotiate from a point of advantage. The Catalans will ask for another loan if no agreement is reached for a permanent transfer.
The situation regarding Felix’s standing at Atletico Madrid also plays in Barcelona’s hands, as neither the coach, the dressing room, nor the fans want him back at the Spanish capital. Felix will also keep on pushing pressure on Atletico with his statements and gestures if that is what needs to be done for him to stay at Barcelona.
