Summer signing Joao Felix has settled superbly at Barcelona, and starred yet again in his side’s 5-0 victory over Royal Antwerp in the Champions League.
In just two starts since joining, Felix has already scored three times and provided an assist, and Xavi’s side have won both games 5-0.
He has transformed Barcelona’s attack and exceeded all expectations following his deadline-day loan move from Atletico Madrid, but the club now face a problem over the 23-year-old.
Felix joined on loan with no option to buy and is on a long-term contract at Atletico Madrid. According to journalist Javi Miguel via CronicaGlobal, the structure of this deal means Barcelona may struggle to keep Felix beyond this season.
If he continues to perform at an outstanding level, then his price tag will rise, much to the delight of Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo and the frustration of Joan Laporta.
His performances will likely also attract interest from elsewhere, and with Barcelona continuing to struggle financially, they may find themselves outmuscled in any permanent deal for the attacker.
Short-term gain
Felix was a deal that was destined to happen this summer, after he admitted that Barcelona was his dream transfer.
Felix’s desire gives Barcelona the upper hand going forward, and in the short-term, this is now appearing to be an excellent deal.
He has helped inject creativity into Xavi’s side, who look a completely different side with him operating as an inverted left-winger, and he is flourishing right now. With the likes of Ilkay Gundogan and Joao Cancelo also joining this summer, Barcelona have a team which can compete for major honours this season.
In the long-term, it remains to be seen whether Felix has any future at Barcelona, and he may become a victim of his own success if he prices himself out of a return to the club, but for now, Barcelona fans can simply enjoy watching him finally perform to his full potential.