Atletico Madrid reject Barcelona’s late offer for Joao Felix

Joao Felix-Atletico Madrid

The Catalan club have reportedly shown late interest in Atletico star Joao Felix.

Barcelona have reportedly shown a surprise interest in Atletico Madrid star Joao Felix, the player they have been previously linked with.

According to reports, the Catalans have offered a loan move for the Portuguese superstar, to which Atletico’s response was an immediate no.

Barca have contacted Felix’s agent Jorge Mendes to discuss a possible loan move on the final day of the transfer window.

However, Los Rojiblancos are unwilling to part ways with their record signing at any cost as they cite him as an important player for the future.

The 21-year-old hasn’t lived up to his full potential so far due to injuries but he showcased how he can be influential in the attack after racking up 10 goals and 6 assists in all competitions last season.

He is yet to make his first appearance this season after undergoing an operation on his ankle.

Barca are keen on attacking reinforcements following the departure of Lionel Messi to Paris-Saint Germain.

However, their financial crisis is proving to be a stumbling block and they managed to register the new signings only after Gerard Pique agreed to take a significant pay cut.

Having said that, the Catalan club are unlikely to afford further signings while the transfer window closes on Tuesday.

Barca boss Ronald Koeman also lamented about the club’s financial state, claiming that the Catalans can’t compete with PSG and Manchester City for big-money signings.

The Dutch manager said: “I understand what people who love this club can feel, but the economic situation is what it is. It’s frustrating, but you have to be realistic. Economically we can’t compete with Paris, City or United. That’s right and we have to accept it.”