Barcelona plot summer deal for Joao Felix

Barcelona could make a summer move to sign Joao Felix, who is currently on loan at Chelsea from Atletico Madrid, according to Sport.

The Portuguese recently joined the Blues on a short-term deal from Atletico following a fall-out with manager Diego Simeone before the World Cup.

He has yet to impress for the Blues after his sending-off on debut but will be hoping to make an impact when his suspension ends next month.

Sport claim that Barcelona have a long-term interest in Felix. They initially spoke about him when Antoine Griezmann returned to Atletico.

The Blaugrana have since sold Memphis Depay to the La Liga counterparts and it is claimed that the pair could do business again during the summer.

Felix’s agent Jorge Mendes has had a good relationship with the Catalan giants, and he currently represents several of their players including Ansu Fati.

It is claimed that Barcelona would be tempted to sign Felix, though a transfer may depend on several players being exchanged on top of a transfer fee.

Barca are currently restricted from making any permanent signings with the ongoing La Liga restrictions placed on them due to their massive debts.

There could be a few high-profile departures next summer before they spend again. Ferran Torres could be one of those that could head for the exit door.

Felix would be a brilliant signing for the Blaugrana. Their playing style would suit the Portuguese, who likes to dribble and link-up play from tight spaces.

The big question is whether the player would be tempted by the move if he were to make a huge impact in his short-term Premier League spell at Chelsea.

The London giants have been on a sensational spending spree since their takeover from Clearlake Capital Group. They have paid close to €500 million on players in the last nine months.

They could pose a huge threat to Barcelona in the pursuit of Felix. The Blues could negotiate a full cash deal for the 23-year-old if he proves successful in his temporary stint.

Felix will return to Atletico at the end of the season, but it is pretty clear he won’t continue with them as long as Simeone stays as their manager.