Joao Felix has been linked with a move to Manchester United in recent weeks.
The Atletico Madrid midfielder could leave Madrid this summer, after spending last season on loan at Chelsea.
That has led to links to an array of clubs, including Manchester United and two more Premier League clubs.
ABC suggested Felix asked his agent, Jorge Mendes, to find a new club his summer only to discover that Atletico Madrid were relaying the same message to his entourage.
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has spoken to Felix about his future and the player has made it no secret that he wants a transfer to Barcelona.
Felix told Romano: “I’d love to play for Barca.
“Barcelona has always been my first choice and I’d love to join Barca.”
🚨 EXCLUSIVE — João Félix statement on his future: “I’d love to play for Barça”.
◉ “Barcelona has always been my first choice and I’d love to join Barça”.
◉ “It was always my dream since I was a kid”.
◉ “If it happens, it will be a dream come true for me”. pic.twitter.com/3zg9BiCDgO
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 18, 2023
The 23-year-old claims that he has dreamed about playing for Barcelona since he was a kid, adding: “It was always my dream since I was a kid.
“If it happens, it will be a dream come true for me.”
After an underwhelming year in the Premier League, the Portugal international wants to return to La Liga, but in the colours of Barcelona.
Barcelona have financial problems – just like last year – and they’ll have to try balance the books again. Adding a player like Felix to the squad could lead to more sales at Camp Nou.
I also think this means United fans can forget about Felix joining ahead of the new season.
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What is it with players?
They want to play for Real Madrid or Barca as a sign of progression in their football career.
And both clubs are greedy to snap up all budding talent, but unable to pay their wages.
How pathetic can that be.