Atleti agree to extend Joao Felix's loan without demanding €75 million

Joao Felix is happy at Barcelona, with whom he has scored eight goals so far this season, and does not even want to hear about returning to Atletico Madrid. His dream of remaining 'cule', which expires on 30 June 2024, could be extended for another year, until 2025. 'Sport' claims that Atletico and Barcelona have agreed to extend his loan for another season. The agreement is on track, although there are still some details to be finalised. 

Joao Felix's agent, Jorge Mendes, met this Tuesday with Joan Laporta, 'cule' president, to give him the last minute of his negotiations with Atletico. Although at first, Atletico were stubbornly asking for 75 million for the Portuguese, they have changed their mind.

Atletico are not counting on Joao Felix and, in recent months, the attacker's performance at 'Can Barca' has stalled, which has caused the red and white club to rethink its firm stance.

The team presided by Enrique Cerezo wanted to sell him at all costs. He offered Barca to buy at least part of Joao Felix's rights this summer. But Barca's economy is not in a position to afford such a luxury, so Barcelona made it clear that, if Atletico wanted to get rid of Joao Felix, they would only accept to extend his loan. Finally, the Madrid institution would have given its arm to twist, although the operation has not been finalised.

Barca want a loan with an option to buy, but this is not obligatory, something that Atletico are demanding. The negotiations, therefore, will be tough, although the 'cules' believe they have the upper hand as Cholo does not want him at the Metropolitano and if there are no other suitors for the Portuguese, they would have to accept him in the team if they refuse to accept the conditions of the 'azulgranas'.