Barcelona’s pursuit of 24-year-old forward could be affected by PSG transfer operation | OneFootball

The slowly dissolving glue of Atletico Madrid and Joao Felix’s marriage culminated in a loan transfer to Barcelona last summer.

While Felix performed in spurts, an inability to perform consistently led to the Portuguese struggling for regular minutes.

As such, following the expiration of his loan deal, Barcelona are unwilling to splash big on Felix and are instead pursuing a successive loan spell, provided he can push for the move.

Atletico Madrid, however, are not in favour of another loan deal. They have yet to recoup their investment in the player, and his relationship with the club and coach Diego Simeone has deteriorated to the point of no return.

Now, recent developments concerning Joao Neves between PSG and Benfica could indirectly affect the chances of Felix returning to Barcelona this summer.

Neves’ sale to PSG would open the door to Felix rejoining boyhood club

Benfica’s interest in re-signing Joao Felix has been an open secret, as they wish to acquire him at a discounted price.

According to SPORT, if the Portuguese club sells off Joao Neves to PSG, who are hot on his heels, they would have the necessary funds to purchase Felix outright.

Joao Felix could move to Benfica. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Despite considering Neves a key player, Benfica would welcome his sale for a significant cash boost. A €70 million deal could facilitate the signing of Joao Felix, with Benfica willing to purchase 50% of his rights from Atletico Madrid.

Benfica value the 24-year-old forward at €40 million and will not pay more due to his inconsistent performances.

Although Atletico Madrid have set a higher asking price, the sale of Neves to PSG could hasten negotiations with Rojiblancos.

Felix, for his, part is hesitant because he views a return to Benfica as a step backward in his career.

That said, he is unwilling to wait indefinitely for Barcelona, whose current priority is securing Nico Williams. Furthermore, the growing competition in the frontline potentially acts as a deterrent for Felix.