By Martin Graham | fifth Sep 2024
Barcelona aimed to carry Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix again on mortgage throughout the summer time switch window, however circumstances prevented these offers from occurring. Each gamers had arrived final season from Manchester Metropolis and Atletico Madrid, respectively, on non permanent preparations, giving them an opportunity to revive their careers whereas becoming Barcelona’s monetary constraints.
Neither participant made a big impact throughout their mortgage spells. Cancelo had a extra noticeable affect, stepping up when Alejandro Balde was sidelined with an damage, and likewise because of the lack of a pure right-back within the squad. Nevertheless, with Barcelona nonetheless going through monetary difficulties and needing to dump gamers to make room for one vital signing, they sought comparable mortgage agreements for each gamers this summer time.
Everlasting strikes block Barcelona’s plans
Ultimately, Barcelona didn’t current affords for both participant. For Cancelo, Manchester Metropolis solely thought of a second mortgage if it included an obligation to purchase the participant subsequent summer time for a set value of €20 million (£16.9m). This proved to be too expensive for Barcelona, inflicting the membership to step again from negotiations. Cancelo in the end left Europe, securing a transfer to Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, the place the membership paid Metropolis the next price and supplied the participant a extra profitable contract.
Concerning Felix, Atletico Madrid was solely keen to barter a everlasting switch, which Barcelona couldn’t afford. Felix finally returned to Chelsea for €57 million (£46.3m), after having spent just a few months with the English membership in 2023. Barcelona needed to inform Felix they couldn’t proceed with the deal, clearing the trail for his return to Stamford Bridge.
This case underscores the monetary challenges Barcelona nonetheless faces, limiting their capability to pursue a number of signings regardless of their must strengthen the squad.
Martin Graham is an MFF sports activities author
