Benfica ready to pay €20 million for 50% rights of Barcelona forward target – report

Having signed Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo on loan last summer, Barcelona are now aiming to extend their loan spells to ensure their continued presence at the club.

However, complications are arising in Barcelona’s efforts to retain the Portuguese duo, as their respective clubs are reluctant to agree so easily.

Barcelona could miss out on Joao Felix

Now, according to Record (h/t SPORT) Felix’s continuity at Barcelona is increasingly uncertain.

Benfica have made a serious bid to bring back the Portuguese forward, offering €20 million for 50% of his rights.

Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid are prioritizing his departure to the Portuguese club, provided the 24-year-old agrees to the move.

Even though Atletico made a higher initial investment of over €120 million in Felix, the club may be willing to agree to Benfica’s valuation.

After all, the Portuguese’s strained relationship with coach Diego Simeone and Barcelona’s desire for a loan at a lower cost could force Atletico to take what they must.

However, Benfica faces a hurdle due to the winger’s hefty wage, and further complexity arises from his intentions to play for Barcelona.

Ultimately, Felix will have the final say while Barcelona keep a tight eye on events through Jorge Mendes, his agent.

The Blaugrana are in a difficult position regardless of the result, as the Rojiblancos are considering alternative offers, and the financial details of any agreement are unknown.

The Catalans hoped to retain Felix under favourable financial conditions, but their strategy now hinges on the player’s commitment to the project.

Barcelona’s financial state means they are unlikely to enter a bidding war with other interested parties and as such recent developments pose problems in their desire to retain Felix.