With each passing day, the transfer window edges closer to its conclusion, and Barcelona are still looking for ways to improve their squad.
With Ousmane Dembele’s imminent departure, it appears that the Blaugrana are looking to make a marquee signing in the attacking department. And, as per Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have been offered the services of PSG superstar Neymar and wantaway Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix this summer.
Neymar, Felix both want Barcelona
Neymar left Barcelona for PSG six years ago, but has been yearning to return to the club for a long time now, and this summer, a move appears likely as PSG, too, are very keen on offloading him. As such, the 31-year-old has been offering himself to the Blaugrana repeatedly and has done so again, with the club now considering his signing, but only on a loan deal.
In that case, it must be noted that PSG would have to pay a major portion of his wages, with Barça not in a position to cover it entirely.
As for Joao, he is angling for a departure from Atletico Madrid, who are also prepared to part ways with him, and the Portuguese has declared publicly that he wishes to sign for Barcelona. Like Neymar, Barça would sign the 23-year-old, whose market value stands at €50 million, on a loan deal, albeit with a purchase option included.
Xavi not convinced by either player
However, the report goes on to state that manager Xavi Hernandez is not convinced by either Neymar or Joao Felix, and would rather not sign any of them.
For starters, the manager prefers to bring in a new right-back and an interior midfielder as priority. Beyond that, the 43-year-old tactician does not see either of them fit into his style of play and the familial atmosphere created in the dressing room. But the Catalan club’s board is of the belief that Xavi will eventually come around and agree to the signing of one of Neymar or Felix due to the quality they offer.
Much will depend on the FFP situation as well, but with Franck Kessie leaving and Dembele on his way out, there could be room, especially with the Blaugrana set to bring in revenue from the Barça Studios lever.
