Barcelona, Atletico Madrid begin talks to extend Joao Felix’s loan deal, could be finalised in January

Even though Joao Felix continues to divide opinion among the Barcelona fanbase, it appears that the club are convinced about going ahead and extending his stay beyond the current season.

The 24-year-old was signed only on a season-long loan deal from Atletico Madrid, with no purchase option included, meaning his current stint runs out at the end of the season.

And even though reports suggest that some key figures within the Blaugrana entity have doubts about his continuity, the reigning La Liga champions seem to be pressing ahead with the idea of prolonging the partnership.

Talks begun with Atletico Madrid

Indeed, as per SPORT Joao Felix is seen as a strategic bet for Barça and the club will do everything possible to ensure his continuity.

Despite his inconsistency, the Blaugrana are convinced that the Portuguese forward will eventually settle down and become a top player at the club. As such, they are putting together an operation that could be beneficial for all parties and be agreed as early as January.

Although Barcelona were in no hurry with Joao Felix, the player and Atletico Madrid, need a clear picture of what the future holds for the forward to plan their next sporting project.

Even though Los Rojiblancos were hoping for a big cash deal, both Barça and the player’s agent, Jorge Mendes, have always been clear: his continuity would only be viable through a new loan.

Joao Felix has always expressed his desire to stay at Barça and he is not prepared to listen to offers, as he did last summer. His commitment forces Barça and Atlético to come to an understanding, the sooner the better for everyone involved.

Another loan deal, but with buy clause

As mentioned earlier, Jorge Mendes has already floated the idea of a new loan deal with Atletico. It is the only way forward, but the superagent will also try to make sure that the Spanish capital club benefits from it.

Barcelona, for their part, have also been open to a direct exchange for an attacking player, although so far there has been no response from the Rojiblancos, even though Diego Simeone likes Ferran Torres.

As such, the rush leads to an agreement on negotiating a new loan. The Colchoneros are willing to repeat the formula – loan without compensation – as long as Joao renews his contract for another year with them.

The idea, however, is to place an option to buy him in 2025. And it can be made mandatory depending on the player’s personal objectives at Barça.

Talks have already started and are being managed directly by Jorge Mendes. Atletico need to clarify Joao’s future as soon as possible to look for an alternative attacking player for their project.

Meanwhile, Barça are hoping for an agreement to retain a top level player for another year and focus their investment on other positions in the squad.