He's desperate.
Mendes viewed this kid as his new Ronaldo and given the kid has never performed at Atletico or in the national team, Mendes realizes time is running out for him, and another season at Atletico could see his stock tumble drastically.
He is a massive project, that has no guarantee he will ever develop, He's already on crazy money at Atletico, Even if he slashed 100K of the weekly wage, it would still be a ton of money for a player who hasn't proved anything, there are better deals out there.
Atleticos player of the season. Most dangerous player in Atleticos team this season. One of the most dangerous players in an attacking sense in La liga this has been his break out season if it wasn't for a aging striker Joao would have 15 to 20 assists.
Pep would turn this kid into a monster. His dribbling ability is absurd he glides past defenders. He's also played multiple positions this season.