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Barcelona finished second in the La Liga table last season, surrendering the league title to bitter rivals Real Madrid. The Catalan side have since removed Xavi from the hot seat at Camp Nou and replaced him with Hansi Flick.
Meanwhile, the Blaugrana have suffered a setback in their efforts to sign Joao Felix this summer. Elsewhere, Aston Villa have entered the race to sign a Brazilian forward.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from July 19, 2024.
Barcelona suffer Joao Felix blow
Barcelona are in danger of missing out on Joao Felix this summer. According to SPORT, Benfica could bring their former player back to the club if Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secure a move for Joao Neves. Felix spent last season on loan at Camp Nou, registering ten goals and six assists from 42 games.
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However, the Portuguese forward is now back with Atletico Madrid, who are ready to let him go. The Catalans are pleased with his efforts but are yet to make a move for the 24-year-old. They are looking to address their financial woes before advancing talks for the player.
Felix is frustrated by the situation and wants his future sorted by July 27, when he is scheduled to return to pre-season training with Los Rojiblancos. Benfica are also hot on his heels and are willing to buy 50% of his rights.
Felix would prefer to join Barcelona, as he considers a return to his former hunting ground a step back in his career. However, the Catalans are yet to make a move for him. Benfica, meanwhile, are willing to cash in on Neves this summer. The talented midfielder is wanted by PSG, who are likely to break the bank for his signature.
A €70m offer might be enough to get a deal done. Benfica will then have the funds to secure a move for Felix. The Portuguese club will not pay over €40m for the 24-year-old and Atletico Madrid may be tempted to oblige due to the minimal interest in his signature.
Aston Villa eyeing Raphinha
Aston Villa have set their sights on Raphinha, according to SPORT. The Brazilian forward dropped down the pecking order last season at Barcelona following the emergence of Lamine Yamal.
Raphinha still managed to end the campaign with ten goals and 13 assists from 37 games across competitions. His efforts have been enough to convince the Villans, who are looking to strengthen their attack this summer.
The 27-year-old has experience of playing in the Premier League with Leeds United, which has made him an enticing prospect for Unai Emery. The Spanish manager is seeking a replacement for Moussa Diaby, who could be on the move this summer.
The Catalans consider Raphinha an important part of their squad. However, the La Liga giants are willing to let him leave this summer to help address their deplorable financial situation. Barcelona are likely to demand €65-70m to let him leave and the amount will be a big help in their pursuit of Nico Williams.
Ernesto Valverde wants Nico Willams stay
Athletic Bilbao manager Ernesto Valverde has expressed a desire to keep Nico Williams at San Mames beyond this summer. The Spanish forward was outstanding for the Basque club last season, registering eight goals and 19 assists from 37 games.
Williams also played a starring role in La Roja's Euro 2024 triumph, garnering the attention of clubs across the continent. The 22-year-old signed a new contract last December but is expected to leave this year. Recent reports have suggested that Barcelona have made him a priority target this summer.
The Catalans are looking to rebuild their squad after a disappointing season. Williams has already forged a fantastic partnership with Lamine Yamal at Euro 2024 and the La Liga giants are keen to rekindle that relationship at club level. Barcelona sporting manager Deco has reportedly held talks with the player's agent on Wednesday to discuss a deal.
However, speaking to the press as cited by Barca Blaugranes, Valverde insisted that he is planning for the future with his star player.
“We are counting on him to return to training, he is happy with us and we are happy with him. We aspire to have the best players and that the players want to be with us. It is a year with a lot of excitement for us. We have a very good team and we aspire to improve it. This is also the case with Unai, Iñaki," said Valverde.
He continued:
“We want to compete in all tournaments. It has been shown that you can be one of the best by being a player for teams like Real, Athletic. You can have a great year. It is a year in which we have many challenges ahead. I am sure he loves what lies ahead, I see him well and happy.”
Recent reports have suggested that Arsenal and Chelsea also have their eyes on Williams.
