Transfer Centre

Xavi: 'Too early to discuss permanent deal for Joao Felix'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 22 September 2023

Barcelona boss Xavi says that it is "too early" to discuss the possibility of signing Atletico Madrid's Joao Felix on a permanent deal.

Barcelona head coach Xavi has said that it is "too early" to discuss the possibility of signing Joao Felix on a permanent deal during next summer's transfer window.

The 23-year-old made the move to Camp Nou on loan from Atletico Madrid in the final stages of the summer transfer market.

Both Manchester United and Liverpool are believed to have made an attempt to sign the Portugal international, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Chelsea.

Meanwhile, there is believed to have been strong Saudi Arabian interest in him, but the forward held out for a 'dream move' to Barcelona.

Felix has been in strong form in the early stages of his Camp Nou career, managing three goals and one assist in three appearances in all competitions.

Barcelona's Joao Felix during the warm up before the match on September 3, 2023 © Reuters

The Portuguese has revealed that he took a "significant" pay cut in order to make the move to Barcelona, with the club needing to be inventive due to their financial problems.

Barcelona's new director of football Deco has confirmed that the club will consider moving for Felix on a permanent deal next summer.

However, any switch is likely to prove expensive, as Atletico have the forward on a contract until June 2029.

Felix's future at Wanda Metropolitano is unclear due to his alleged strained relationship with Atletico head coach Diego Simeone, and he could potentially again be at the centre of speculation next summer.

Barcelona head coach Xavi on July 30, 2023 © Reuters

Xavi has lavished praise on the forward for his adaptation to life at the club, but the Barcelona head coach has said that talk of a permanent switch is premature.

"He cooperates very well and can be another midfielder between the lines as well. Not only does Robert [Lewandowski] benefit from it, but also the entire team," said Xavi during his press conference on Friday.

"It's early to talk about the signing of Joao Felix. Let's see how things go, he's happy, he's helping us, like [Joao] Cancelo. First we have to see how the season goes and hopefully he continues on this path."

Felix scored on his full league debut for Barcelona against Real Betis last weekend before netting twice and providing an assist in the 5-0 win over Royal Antwerp in the Champions League.

Barcelona will be bidding to make it six straight wins in all competitions when they host Celta Vigo on Saturday evening, and Ronald Araujo is back in the squad after a spell out through injury.