Sport has recently stated that Barcelona want Atletico Madrid youngster Joao Felix in return for Antoine Griezmann this summer. It is believed that Barca are keen on the Portuguese whizkid to be included in a potential swap deal for Griezmann during this summer transfer window (via Sport).
Felix’s Inconsistent Record At Wanda Metropolitano
Since arriving from Benfica in the summer of 2019, Felix has caught the eye for the Madrid giants but has been far from consistent for them in the final third. The Portuguese prospect participated in 76 matches for the Spanish outfit thus far, scoring 19 goals and providing nine assists in the process across multiple competitions.
The 21-year-old impressed in patches for Diego Simeone’s side last season when he averaged 1.3 shots, 0.7 key passes and 1.0 dribbles per 90 minutes in La Liga. He even distributed the ball relatively well in the opponent’s half after making 84% of his attempted passes in the Spanish top tier (stats via whoscored).
The Viseu-born sensation has the potential to become one of the best talents of his generation, so it would be a major coup for the Catalans if they can agree on a swap deal with Atletico Madrid involving Griezmann moving in the other direction in this off-season.
Will Recruiting Felix Be A Good Move For Everyone Involved?
Felix is a quick and agile forward who can get himself into some promising areas in the attacking third. He is a decent finisher in front of the opponent’s goal and can strike the ball with power and accuracy from long range. Felix is versatile enough to operate in any position across the frontline as he is primarily a striker but can play as a left-sided winger if required.
The Portuguese whizkid can link up play with his teammates in and around the opposition penalty box. However, he needs to improve his productivity up top if he wants to become a world-class striker in the future. At 21, the Atletico starlet is still quite raw and would need time to make himself a regular feature at the highest level.
Felix will be an excellent long-term signing for Barca to pursue this summer. He has what it takes to make himself a regular starter at the Nou Camp and will offer some healthy competition for Memphis Depay in the coming seasons.
Hence, Ronald Koeman should think about recruiting Felix before the start of the new campaign as it will be a good move for both the player and the Catalan club. Diego Simeone’s side can even benefit from acquiring Griezmann’s services in the process as the Frenchman is still good enough to make a significant impact at the Spanish capital.
