Atletico Madrid News
Barcelona still keeping tabs on Atletico Madrid forward, agent could become key
Much like several other teams in the league, Atletico Madrid are in a terrible financial situation. They face problems signing players, even at low cost, and then even with registering them.
As such, they will likely be forced to sell some of their assets. One of the players expected to bring in a lot of money in the summer is 23-year-old Joao Felix.
The Portuguese moved to Chelsea in the winter on loan after a falling out with manager Diego Simeone. He did, however, extend his contract before leaving. Plus, the loan deal does not include an option to buy, which likely means Atleti will try selling him in the summer.
One of the parties still interested in his signing are none other than Barcelona. The La Liga leaders have been keeping tabs on Felix since forever, and according to SPORT, are still interested in signing him.
Atleti bought the player for a sum of around €126 million, and will likely not let him go for anything less than €80-100 million.
Consequently, the move becomes next to impossible for Barcelona, who are struggling with their finances themselves.
Barça do have a strong relationship with Felix’s agent, Jorge Mendes, who could find a formula for the move. It will, of course, not be an easy operation, but the player favours a move to the Catalan outfit.
Having completed several transfers in the past, most recently one for Memphis Depay, Barcelona and Atletico share a rather fluid relationship.
The Blaugranes also have the option to purchase Yannick Carrasco from the Rojiblancos for €15 million – a deal they reached while negotiating the Memphis move. Whether there is movement between the two clubs involving Felix as well remains to be seen.
Sofyan Amrabat is a player in demand, with the midfielder reportedly a top target for various clubs during the January transfer window, as confirmed by his brother.
However, Atletico Madrid are also keeping tabs on the Moroccan international, with the club said to be interested in bringing him to Wanda Metropolitano.
According to Foot Mercato, Amrabat is keen on moving to La Liga, and Atletico Madrid are one of the clubs that he admires. The midfielder had previously praised Atleti boss Diego Simeone, further fueling speculation of a potential move to the Spanish capital.
Atletico Madrid’s interest in Amrabat comes in the midst of uncertainty over the future of Axel Witsel.
The Fiorentina star could be a possible replacement for the Belgian midfielder, whose contract at the club expires at the end of the season, with his father hinting at a possible exit.
However, Atleti would face competition from Barcelona in the pursuit of Amrabat, who appears to be prioritising a move to Camp Nou. The Moroccan international could potentially become an excellent alternative for Barça’s top target, Martin Zubimendi.
However, Fiorentina is unlikely to let the midfielder go cheaply, and Barcelona would have to sort out their economic situation to afford him.
That is where Atletico Madrid might look to get ahead of the Catalans. Although the Spanish giants are also struggling with finances, they may still be able to swoop in and secure the services of the Fiorentina star come the end of the season.
It is too early to deduce anything just yet. A lot will be uncovered as we enter the final phase of the season. Amrabat himself will be keen on making a definitive decision on his future, as he looks to take the next step in his career.
