Report: FC Barcelona and Real Madrid feel used by Luka Jovic

The transfer saga of Eintracht Frankfurt striker Luka Jovic has taken many twists and turns over the past few weeks, but this most recent revelation is perhaps the craziest of all.

Jovic, who was formally purchased by Eintracht Frankfurt from Benfica for just €6 million earlier this month, has been heavily linked to a move to both Real Madrid and FC Barcelona should Eintracht Frankfurt decide to flip the Serbia international.

Per a report by Sport, the La Liga powerhouses, however, feel used by Eintracht Frankfurt, Jovic, and his representation. Real Madrid and Barca think that their respective names have been leaked by Die Adler and Jovic’s camp in transfer rumors to drive up the asking price for bids on the striker.

Just two days ago, it seemed as if Bayern how bowed out of the running for Jovic...but now, who knows? Even Jovic’s father indicated that the 21-year-old was inclined to continue his stay under Adi Hutter.

Barcelona’s irritation with the situation stems from the ever-rising gap between what it wants to spend on Jovic versus what Eintracht Frankfurt thinks Jovic is worth.

Barça have followed the player’s progression over the last couple of years and see him as an interesting option, should his price tag remain realistic. When the two sides spoke earlier on the price was around €50m but it’s constantly been increased with each passing week. The last meeting took place over a month ago and at that stage Eintracht were demanding €80m. Barça decided at that moment to withdraw from the running to sign the Serbian.

As for Los Blancos, the alleged €80m fee is also a sticking point.

Real Madrid, who are desperate to add new blood to their own squad, also met with Jovic’s agents. That meeting was leaked to the media by his agents. The rising asking price has seen Madrid back off too, although they haven’t ruled out a move either. Madrid have other options which are ahead of Jovic at the moment. Eintracht hoped that this would force Bayern and PSG, who have been watching events from the sidelines, make a move but they don’t appear willing to part with €80m the German club are demanding either.

The report states that the absence of Real Madrid and Barca from the bidding could mean that the most “likely destination” would be Bayern Munich or PSG. Sport also thinks that the rumored price tag may preclude either of those clubs from a major pursuit of Jovic as well.

Jovic has 25 goals and seven assists in 42 games across all competitions this season.