Atletico Madrid striker Joao Felix is in the spotlight in the current transfer market, according to a new report from Spanish newspaper Daily Sport. Although he has already begun pre-season training with Atletico, rumors of his departure continue to swirl. What's particularly striking is that Felix himself is prioritizing a move to Barcelona, further fueling speculation and anticipation in the transfer market.
Felix has shown little interest in participating in the Asian season tour, preferring Atletico Madrid to release him so that he can join his favorite Barcelona. Although the likes of Villa and Benfica have also shown interest, Felix's heart is clearly set on the Camp Nou. However, he is also well aware that his chances of playing may be somewhat affected if Barcelona sign players such as Nico Williams and Olmo at the same time.
As of now, Barcelona has confirmed that Felix is still on their attraction list, but has not taken substantial action to promote the transfer. Barcelona are currently focusing more on other targets, but that doesn't mean they have completely ruled out the possibility of bringing in Felix. After all, the time span of this transfer window could be quite long and everything is still subject to change.
Felix has a relatively cordial relationship with the Atletico dressing room, but there is a certain disconnect with the coaching staff. This dissonance in the relationship has undoubtedly exacerbated his willingness to leave the team. Several Portuguese media outlets are currently stationed at Atletico's pre-season training camp, keeping a close eye on the relationship between Felix and head coach Simeone and the eventual direction of his future.
In terms of potential buyers, Benfica showed great motivation and were willing to make an offer for Felix. Aston Villa, on the other hand, preferred to bring him in on loan, but Atletico preferred to sell outright, making the whole transfer negotiation process more complicated and lengthy than expected.
