Boost for Barcelona in Joao Felix race as Benfica president Rui Costa admits Portuguese giants cannot afford to sign Atletico Madrid outcast - but warns the 'case isn't closed'

Felix's future has been the subject of intense speculation following the conclusion of his loan spell at Barcelona. Despite the Portuguese forward's clear desire to remain with the Catalan giants, Barcelona have hesitated to meet Atletico Madrid's substantial asking price and this financial hurdle has created an opening for other clubs to vie for Felix's signature.

Rui Costa, the president of Benfica, has been vocal about the club's challenges in re-signing Felix. While attending a friendly match against Fulham in the Algarve, Costa addressed the media, highlighting the financial limitations that Benfica faces. He noted that despite the club's interest in bringing Felix back, the cost associated with acquiring the player from Atletico Madrid remains prohibitive.

"João Felix is not a closed case, if I had the possibility of bringing him back, I would do it," Costa said. "I am not in a position to pay what Joao Felix costs today. Benfica's squad is not yet complete, there is still a month to go until the transfer window closes."

Felix has experienced a tumultuous journey over the past season-and-a-half, having been loaned out to both Chelsea and Barcelona. Nonetheless, his performances have garnered attention, and now there is speculation about a potential return to the Premier League with Aston Villa emerging as a surprise contender for Felix's signature, adding another layer of intrigue to his transfer saga.

One of the primary obstacles for Benfica in their pursuit of Felix is his hefty annual salary. The forward's current wages, reported to be around £7 million ($9m), would place him among the highest earners at the club, alongside Angel Di Maria and Juan Bernat. This financial burden poses a significant challenge for Benfica, further complicating their efforts to bring Felix back.