FC Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid know each other by heart. Very often, the two Spanish giants had to discuss, exchange and negotiate during the transfer window. Last year, they disagreed for a long time regarding the Antoine Griezmann file, since the Colchoneros refused to pay his purchase option set at 40 million euros. After placing the French player on the bench, the two teams finally reached an agreement for his permanent transfer.
João Félix against two Barça players
A few weeks later, in the winter transfer window, Memphis Depay joined Atlético, after a year and a half in Catalonia. Xavi would have liked Yannick Ferreira Carrasco to do the opposite. But Diego Simeone closed the door for the Belgian. This summer, Catalans and Madrid are still linked by the transfer market. Indeed, according to the information published by Sport this Wednesday, an XXL barter is in preparation.
This concerns in particular João Félix. The latter has been at open war with Atlético de Madrid for a year. Sent on loan to Chelsea this winter, the Portuguese disappointed. Back in Madrid, he learned that his number (7, editor’s note) had been given to Antoine Griezmann. The player, who clashed with the club’s sporting director last week, added fuel to the fire yesterday by giving an interview without the permission of the Colchoneros.
Jorge Mendes exchanges with the two clubs
João Félix took the opportunity to declare his love for FC Barcelona. A club where he sees himself playing. And his dream could come true. Sport explains that Atlético, which is struggling to get offers for its player, is not against selling him to a rival. Especially since two Blaugrana players particularly appeal to Simeone, namely Ferran Torres and Franck Kessié. Two elements which will not be retained by the Culés, who must find 60 million euros by August 31.
Such a deal would therefore be a good solution to be able to strengthen while shedding unwanted people. On the other hand, this would not necessarily make it possible to reduce the wage bill since João Félix receives a large salary in Madrid. His agent, Jorge Mendes, is active no matter what to make things happen, he who exchanges with the two clubs. Barça and Atlético have not yet discussed directly. But they might do it soon. Unless Mendes places João Félix at PSG, where he has his entries with Luis Campos.
