The future of Joao Felix has become a key talking point in Saudi Arabia, especially after his superb performances in the league.
Since joining Al Nassr, Felix has been on fire, racking up 31 goals and 24 assists in 59 competitive matches. He has emerged as one of the best players in the entire Saudi league.
But Felix’s contract expires in the summer of 2027, which has led to question marks over his future.
Felix obssessed about Barcelona return
With his contract at Al Nassr expiring soon, Felix appears to be harbouring thoughts of a potential return to European football.
Felix has been on fire in Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)
According to SPORT, the Portuguese international is obsessed about the idea of returning to Barcelona, a club he played for briefly on a loan deal.
Felix enjoyed his brief spell under Xavi Hernandez and harbours a great deal of love for the Blaugrana. Much like Joao Cancelo, the attacker is now keen on ensuring a return to Catalonia.
Felix has made his desire public as well, openly stating his love for the club. So if he does indeed end up returning to Europe, Camp Nou would be his preferred choice.
Al Nassr have the upper hand
Unfortunately, though, Felix’s future is not in his own hands at the moment.
The dream to return to Barcelona looks distant for Felix. (Photo by Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)
This is thanks to a special clause that the player had agreed to at the time of signing for Al Nassr. The claude effectively gives the Saudi Arabian outfit the liberty to extend his contract for two more years without needing Felix’s signature.
The two-year deal will see Felix’s contract being extended until 2029 and comes with a sizable increase in his current salary of €10 million annually.
In light of his brilliant performances, the Saudi club are planning to add further financial incentive, in an attempt to coax the player to remain at Al Nassr.
The only condition in the clause is that it will have to be activated by May 2027, which is unlikely to be a problem for the club.