€50 million-rated forward getting closer to Barcelona move, Deco a great admirer

Joao Felix has been heavily linked with a move to FC Barcelona this summer, with the player himself publicly declaring his desire to join the club.

The 23-year-old forward, whose market value stands at €50 million, has fallen completely out of favour at Atletico Madrid, and is not a part of Diego Simeone’s plans.

Furthermore, Felix was the subject of abusive chants from Los Rojiblancos’ fans this past weekend, following which it appears that there is no way back for him.

There have been talks of him wanting to terminate his contract as a result, with Barcelona very much interested.

Felix getting closer to Barça?

Now, Manu Sainz of AS is reporting that Joao Felix is getting closer and closer to joining Barça, albeit on a potential loan deal with a purchase option.

Atletico Madrid are understood to be demanding a loan fee of around €15 million for the 23-year-old, but the price will decrease the closer the deadline day inches.

As such, Felix is prepared to wait for a week or two so that Barcelona can sign him for a lower loan fee.

Furthermore, the report adds that Deco’s appointment as sporting director works in favour of the move as the former midfielder is a huge admirer of his compatriot.

It is said that Mateu Alemany was not in favour of signing Felix, but with Deco assuming power now, coupled with Joan Laporta’s known admiration of the player, makes the transfer much more likely.

Manager Xavi was also not always sold on the idea, but is now open to welcoming Felix into the team as Ousmane Dembele has already left and there are question marks over Ansu Fati’s future.

As such, Felix, who has rejected offers from Saudi Arabia, could be getting closer to his dream move to Barcelona.