By Martin Graham | 5th Sep 2024
Barcelona aimed to bring Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix back on loan during the summer transfer window, but circumstances prevented these deals from happening. Both players had arrived last season from Manchester City and Atletico Madrid, respectively, on temporary arrangements, giving them a chance to revive their careers while fitting Barcelona’s financial constraints.
Neither player made a huge impact during their loan spells. Cancelo had a more noticeable influence, stepping up when Alejandro Balde was sidelined with an injury, and also due to the lack of a natural right-back in the squad. However, with Barcelona still facing financial difficulties and needing to offload players to make room for one significant signing, they sought similar loan agreements for both players this summer.
Permanent moves block Barcelona’s plans
In the end, Barcelona did not present offers for either player. For Cancelo, Manchester City only considered a second loan if it included an obligation to buy the player next summer for a set price of €20 million (£16.9m). This proved to be too costly for Barcelona, causing the club to step back from negotiations. Cancelo ultimately left Europe, securing a move to Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, where the club paid City a higher fee and offered the player a more lucrative contract.
Regarding Felix, Atletico Madrid was only willing to negotiate a permanent transfer, which Barcelona couldn’t afford. Felix eventually returned to Chelsea for €57 million (£46.3m), after having spent a few months with the English club in 2023. Barcelona had to inform Felix they couldn’t proceed with the deal, clearing the path for his return to Stamford Bridge.
This situation underscores the financial challenges Barcelona still faces, limiting their ability to pursue multiple signings despite their need to strengthen the squad.
