Barcelona attacking target join the transfer wishlist of Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta – report | OneFootball

Joao Felix has found himself in a challenging situation yet again this summer. The Atletico Madrid player, who has a contract lasting until 2029, is coming on the back of a mixed loan spell at Barcelona, with no real clarity on his future.

Barcelona are interested in acquiring him on another loan deal, but Atletico Madrid are likely seeking a permanent move, which has made the operation quite complicated for the Blaugrana.

In the midst of Barça’s pursuit, a host of other clubs, including his former employer SL Benfica, have shown the desire to sign the Portuguese forward this summer.

Arsenal join race to sign Felix

According to Mundo Deportivo, the latest development is that Arsenal are now interested in Felix.

The Gunners, led by Mikel Arteta, see Felix as a good fit for their style of play. His past experience in the Premier League – a short spell at Chelsea, also makes him an appealing target for the club.

Felix, though, would face stiff competition from established attackers like Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus.

Arsenal eye move for Joao Felix (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Arteta has acknowledged the challenges of the current transfer market, noting that new rules have made clubs more cautious. Despite these hurdles, Arsenal are working hard to find ways to improve their squad, and Felix could be a part of that plan.

Can Barcelona sign Felix?

Barcelona, though, are not expected to sit back quietly. The club do have an excellent relationship with Felix’s agent, Jorge Mendes, who is actively trying to convince Atletico Madrid to sanction another loan deal for the forward.

Joao Felix has instructed his agents to secure a new club for him before July 27, the date he is due to join Atlético’s pre-season training.

He wishes to start his pre-season with the team he will be playing for in the new season. Whether or not that will be in Barcelona colours remains to be seen.