Barcelona have at times come into the spotlight in the world of football as big spenders. The Catalan giants were once revered for primarily relying on their homegrown talents. However, in recent years, particularly during Josep Maria Bartomeu’s reign, Barcelona began to spend big on global icons.
Despite the clear intentions, it did not work out quite well for La Blaugrana. A particular thorn that still hurts was the saga of Antoine Griezmann.
The French star was bought by FC Barcelona in 2019 for €120 million from Atletico Madrid. However, just a few years later in 2022, he returned to Atletico Madrid for just €20 million.
Getting back at Atletico
While several variables went into finalizing that agreement, it is still seen as a horrible transfer saga for the Catalan giants. However, it seems that Barcelona may just have a trick up their sleeve to get back at Los Colchoneros.
According to Spanish outlet SPORT, Barcelona intend to pull a similar trick with Portuguese star Joao Felix. The 23-year-old is currently on loan at Barça from Atletico Madrid. However, he intends to stay with the Catalan giants, and Barcelona intend to help him with that.
Atletico’s demands
Moreover, Diego Simeone does not want the player back at Atletico Madrid. On the other hand, the Madrid-based club thinks his performances at Barcelona have increased his valuation and is reportedly going to demand €80 million from Barça for his permanent transfer.
Barcelona to remain stubborn
Barcelona, on the other hand, intend to pay no such amount. To get back at Atletico, they will force the Madrid-based club to take down that asking price. Since they can not take Felix back due to the problems that could arise, they will be forced at a point to give in to the Catalan demands.
The player has already publicly stated and claimed his love for Barcelona. Fans of Atletico Madrid would not be too eager to welcome a former player who has made a claim like that. As per SPORT, there is confidence that Barcelona can reduce their asking price by at least half to retain Felix.
However, this saga is expected to be a long one. The club does not intend to formalize these negotiations for his transfer until June of next year. Until then, Felix and Barça have a whole season to look forward to and make the most out of given the complexity of their standings in the various competitions they compete in.
