Joao Felix’s aspiration to don the colors of FC Barcelona could be a reality as the Spanish giants intensify their efforts for a transfer, a prospect that might materialize within the upcoming 48 hours.
As per Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona is swiftly moving to initiate the ‘operation João Félix’ within the ensuing 48 hours. The club’s leadership is actively navigating the complex terrain of Financial Fair Play (FFP) restrictions to engineer a viable path for the transfer.
Barcelona are prepared to activate the ‘operation João Félix’ in the next 48h — board working to find solution to make it happen with FFP 🚨🔵🔴 #FCB
João, only waiting for Barça since that interview in July.
He’d only consider other clubs or Saudi if Barça deal collapses. pic.twitter.com/UGytt0W9eB
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 30, 2023
The Portuguese forward has harbored ambitions of joining Barça since his conversation with Romano in July. He remains steadfast in his preference for Barcelona, contemplating alternative options solely if the proposed Barça deal faces impediments.
Barcelona’s fans were not happy with the announcement, as a major section of the fan base felt that this would result in the exit of their Golden Boy, Ansu Fati. While other fans were found joking in the comments asking about ‘Operation Felix.’ A comment took the spotlight which posed the question, “is that another lever” about the Felix Operation.
Recent reports, conveyed by Sky Sports, underscore Liverpool’s keen interest in Joao Felix, contemplating him as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, should Salah’s potential move to the Saudi Pro League materialize.
Portuguese sources suggest that the acquisition of Joao Felix, a national teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo, could involve a financial commitment ranging between $80 to $86 million. This fiscal demand poses a challenge for Barcelona, a club grappling with financial constraints since the pandemic.
Across the Spanish capital, Atletico Madrid has experienced discontentment in the aftermath of Felix’s interview, extending to his representatives. According to Marca, the rift also permeates the sentiment within Diego Simeone‘s first-team roster, which reportedly finds their 23-year-old colleague’s actions less than agreeable.
🚨| The Atlético de Madrid dressing room is TIRED of João Félix. They have not taken it well. His acts are understood as ‘disrespectful’.
[🎖️: @medinamarca, @marca] pic.twitter.com/mwpTRSXyEM
— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) July 19, 2023
Joao Felix, aiming for regular playtime, has yet to grace the field for Atletico Madrid in the current season. His intention to secure consistent game opportunities has prompted this endeavor. Since his transfer from Benfica, Felix has featured in 131 matches for the club, contributing 34 goals and 28 assists.
Ansu Fati’s move to Tottenham can facilitate the move of Joao Felix to FC Barcelona
Reports emerging from Spain pivot between potential arrivals and departures at FC Barcelona, with recent indications hinting at Ansu Fati’s potential transfer to the English Premier League, specifically to Tottenham.
Sources reveal ongoing communication between Tottenham and Barcelona, as both parties engage in negotiations concerning a loan deal for Ansu Fati, extending until June 2024.
While discussions persist regarding the stipulations of the arrangement, it’s worth noting that Barcelona seeks comprehensive coverage of the player’s salary. Interestingly, Ansu Fati’s availability has also been presented to Chelsea, although no official engagement from the Blues has materialized as of now.
Understand Tottenham are now in contact with Barça to negotiate for Ansu Fati deal on loan until June 2024. ⚪️🇪🇸 #THFC
Discussions about conditions of the deal but Barça want 100% of the salary covered.
Ansu, also presented to Chelsea as opportunity but no former approach yet. pic.twitter.com/AxXVrmVqcW
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 30, 2023
Observers in Spain highlight a strategic motive behind Barcelona’s inclination to offload Fati. This strategic shift could potentially facilitate the club’s maneuvering within the Financial Fair Play (FFP) and La Liga regulations for wages, enabling the registration of Joao Felix.
Significantly, Felix occupies a similar role to Fati, thus creating a coherent alignment if Barcelona’s current Number 10 and ‘Golden Boy’ embark on a loan venture to England.
Fati, since his meniscal injury during the 2020/21 season, has grappled with both form and playing time. This setback led to a substantial 305-day hiatus from the field. Over the course of his recovery and return, Fati endured six subsequent injuries, sidelining him for a total of 40 matches across club and national team competitions.
In seeking a resurgence, Fati aims to rekindle his form and regain physical fitness at Tottenham. The club, seeking attacking reinforcements following Harry Kane’s departure, could potentially serve as the platform for Fati’s revitalization.