Former Portugal and Atletico Madrid winger Paulo Futre has disclosed that Joao Felix was offered to Manchester United and Manchester City before he secured a move to Barcelona.
According to Futre, after Joao Felix’s loan stint with Chelsea concluded this summer, the Portuguese star’s services were presented to various clubs.
However, neither Manchester United nor Manchester City expressed interest in signing the forward.
Additionally, Atletico Madrid explored the possibility of a transfer to Aston Villa, but the player himself rejected the move.
Futre, speaking to Cadena Ser, revealed his concerns when Joao Felix expressed his dream of playing for Barcelona, and he questioned Jorge Mendes, Joao’s agent, about it.
Mendes denied responsibility for Joao’s statements but confirmed that he had discussions with Manchester United, a fact that Futre verified through his connections.
Subsequently, Mendes also mentioned talks with Manchester City, which Futre independently confirmed had no interest in acquiring Joao Felix.
“What happened between João and Cholo [Diego Simeone] happens every day in football. It’s something normal. What is not normal is that phenomenal coaches knew that João was a genius (…) he entered their game system, but nobody wanted him.
Neither Arteta, nor Guardiola, nor Klopp, any club… My question is, why? The only team that has wanted him has been Aston Villa. Joao said no when there was an agreement between Atleti and Aston Villa at the beginning of July.”
After facing rejections from the Premier League heavyweights, Joao Felix eventually secured a one-year loan deal with Barcelona on transfer deadline day.
This move to the Catalan giants has turned out to be a boon for the young forward, as he has displayed exceptional form at the beginning of the season.
In his four appearances so far, he has netted three goals and provided two assists.
His next opportunity to shine will come on Tuesday when Barcelona takes on Mallorca in a La Liga match.