Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has urged Joao Felix to join Barcelona after Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino opted against signing the Portugal international.

Felix joined Chelsea on loan from Atletico Madrid in January and Pochettino has opted against making his stay at the club permanent.

“It is a lie to say that we did not play well because João Félix was there. And if he were now, he would also play well. I don’t clash with him, I’m clear with him and I tell him what I feel. He knows what my coaching profile is and he knows that I like to train with great joy,” Simeone told Partidazo Cope.

Félix, who has long been linked with Barcelona, had previously expressed that he felt more free at Chelsea compared to Atletico.

“I’m not going to have an opinion on it because I always understand the moment footballers are in. And if it’s not with us, let him do it in another team.

“He would be very important for them (Barça). He has huge qualities, he shoots well with his left foot, is good with his head, with his right foot and has an eye for the game. He will be what he wants to be. I have no problem with anyone.”