FC Barcelona Faces Possible Loss of Star Player Joao Felix as Manchester City and Benfica Negotiate

According to recent reports, FC Barcelona is facing the possibility of losing one of its first-team stars from last season. Joao Felix, who joined the team along with Joao Cancelo in 2019, is reportedly close to leaving the club. The duo’s loan deals expired on June 30, 2024 and there were hopes that they could continue at Barca under Hansi Flick. However, it seems that obstacles have arisen in their potential return.

Sources claim that Manchester City has expressed interest in selling Cancelo rather than agreeing to another loan deal with Barcelona. Meanwhile, Benfica is actively negotiating with Atletico Madrid for Felix’s return to his boyhood club in Portugal. It is reported that Benfica is close to reaching an agreement with Atleti for a significant portion of Felix’s rights, making him their most expensive signing in history.

According to reports, Barca has not considered making a bid for Felix despite his agent Mendes informing the Sporting Director Deco of the ongoing negotiations. As a result, it seems likely that Barca will lose out on Felix next season and this could open up opportunities for other players on the team such as Raphinha and Lamine Yamal who could secure permanent spots on the left wing and right flank respectively.

While the situation regarding Felix’s potential departure continues to develop, it appears increasingly likely that he will not be returning to Barcelona next season.