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Joao Cancelo and Joao FelixGetty

Have Barcelona got €105m? Transfer calls made on Joao Cancelo & Joao Felix after agreeing initial loans with Man City & Atletico Madrid

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  • Portuguese pair joined in summer of 2023
  • Due to spend the season at Camp Nou
  • Permanent deals will be sought in 2024
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    The reigning La Liga champions put loan agreements in place for the Portugal internationals during the summer window. Versatile defender Cancelo arrived from Premier League giants Manchester City, while Felix made a “dream” move from domestic rivals Atletico Madrid.

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    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Felix has only netted once in his last 10 games, while questions have been asked of Cancelo as Barca continue to leak goals, but sporting director Deco says the club want to keep both men on board – despite their reported fees coming in at €25m (£22m/$27m) and €80m (£70m/$86m) respectively. Deco has told RAC1: “We are still in November, it is early. But of course we are already thinking about it. We see how the season is going. There is no doubt that we want to have them next season, because they are good for the squad. We are happy with their performance. How? We’ll see, these are discussions for later.”

  • WHAT THEY SAID

    While looking ahead to next summer, Deco has claimed that no business will be done in January – with Vitor Roque set to be the only arrival if his agreed switch from Athletico Paranaense is pushed through ahead of schedule. Deco added to SPORT: “When the squad was drawn up, it was intended for the entire year. And that idea has not changed nor will it change regardless of fair play. I don’t think we can make any move in January regardless of what happens with Roque.”

  • XAVI BARCELONA 2023Getty Images

    WHAT NEXT?

    Barca have faced criticism this season after struggling for consistency in La Liga and Champions League competition, but head coach Xavi retains the full support of the club’s board and the expectation is that a star-studded squad will be reinforced at some point in 2024 - despite much-publicised financial struggles being endured in Catalunya.