Joao Felix wanted to sign for PSG before Barcelona move – report

There is absolutely no questioning Joao Felix’s commitment towards FC Barcelona. The 23-year-old has become a regular in Xavi’s side since joining on loan from Atletico Madrid during the summer.

However, journalist David Medina has revealed via Radio MARCA that the Portuguese forward was actually inclined towards joining Paris Saint-Germain before signing for the Catalans, but the move failed as Luis Enrique did not want him.

Felix sealed his much-awaited move to Barcelona in September, arriving from Atletico Madrid on a season-long loan.

The former Chelsea loanee first extended his contract with Atletico until 2029 and adjusted his salary according to Barcelona’s structure.

Story could have been different

In July, soon after returning from Chelsea, Felix went public to express his love for Barça which, understandably, did not bid well with the Atletico management. 

At first, they were eager to let him leave, given they receive a suitable bid. During the time, a certain Jorge Mendes was said to be on his toes, with the Portuguese super agent working on catering several deals.

As such, the forward’s representative offered his services to PSG first, but the Ligue 1 winners did not want the incorporation as their new manager Enrique was against the idea.

So was Xavi, wasn’t he?

For what it is worth, even Barcelona manager Xavi had his reservations over Felix’s acquisition.

While the expression of the forward’s desire to join Barcelona was out in the open, he did not really have a great time at Chelsea.

At first, the team from Catalonia was working on the arrivals of Bernardo Silva and Neymar, but it was only after this that Xavi gave his approval to Felix’s arrival.

Interestingly enough, the move has worked pretty well for everyone involved to the extent that Barcelona are now contemplating the idea of a permanent acquisition.

Before that, several things will have to be factored in, like Atletico’s demand of seeking at least €80 million, something which Barcelona will certainly not offer.

However, as reported before, the player will try to push a permanent move to Barcelona by rejecting other offers that will come along his way.