Benfica request for more time to sign 24-year-old Barcelona attacking target | OneFootball

Barcelona’s desire to keep Joao Felix is no secret, but Atletico Madrid’s firm stance is blocking progress in negotiations.

The player has made it clear that he doesn’t want to return to Atletico due to his strained relationship with coach Diego Simeone and while Felix and Barcelona are eager for him to stay, Atletico Madrid want a substantial deal from this transfer.

It is suggested that Felix is keen to sort out his future quickly, but given Barcelona’s financial situation, it is getting difficult for them to move fast.

At the same time, Benfica entered the race a while ago and despite the fact that they are facing similar problems like Barcelona, they are hopeful of finding a solution and hence, have asked Felix to be patient, report SPORT.

Barcelona are racing against time

It has been suggested that Felix wants his next move decided before the end of July, a point he has communicated to his agent, Jorge Mendes. Barcelona are interested in renewing his loan, but their financial situation may make this challenging.

Benfica are serious about signing Joao Felix. (Photo by JORGE GUERRERO/AFP via Getty Images)

In the meantime, Benfica have emerged as a possible destination for Felix. The Portuguese club, where Felix previously played and impressed, is very interested in bringing him back.

However, they also need time to gather the necessary funds. According to reports in Portugal, Benfica have also asked Felix to be patient as they develop a clear strategy to meet Atletico’s asking price of €30 million for 50% of his rights.

Benfica have enough arsenal to sign Felix

In order to sign Felix, Benfica have a cash cow within their own ranks, namely Joao Neves.

The 19-year-old has garnered significant interest from other clubs, including PSG, who see him as a potential addition to Luis Enrique’s squad. Neves, represented by Jorge Mendes and valued at €55 million, could be a lucrative sale for Benfica.

If Benfica sell Neves, they would gain the financial strength needed to pursue Felix and end his contract with Atletico Madrid, albeit only partially due to the remaining 50% of his rights.

Barcelona, on the other hand, must wait until they resolve their financial fair play issues and make some player sales before they can make any new signings. When they are in a position to do so, their focus will be on securing Nico Williams, a standout player from the Euro Cup.