According to AS, Atlético Madrid wonderkid Joao Felix is now interested in a move to Newcastle, following the Saudi Arabian takeover.
What’s the story?
Well, the Spanish news outlet actually write about the dangers of the Premier League, and how English football’s riches affect La Liga.
AS believe wealthy Premier League clubs will continue to steal La Liga’s best players, or enhance the market value of targets for La Liga clubs.
That’s where Felix is mentioned.
AS believe the 20-cap Portugal international is now tempted by a move to Newcastle, after the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (PIF) and their £320bn arrived at St James’ Park.
That is huge news, if true.
Atlético Madrid paid a club-record £113m to sign Felix from Benfica when he was just 19 years of age, after Antoine Griezmann joined Barcelona.
The wonderkid has somewhat struggled in Madrid, scoring just 20 goals in 88 appearances, but he’s still a player with Ballon d’Or potential at just 22.
Joao Felix to Newcastle would be special
If this move happens, we’d be utterly shocked.
With all due respect to Newcastle, Felix is playing for the champions of Spain, so we’d be surprised if he swapped that for the Magpies, who are 19th in the Premier League.
Of course, PIF can give Felix a ridiculous salary, but the truth of the matter is that he could go from the Champions League to the Championship within the space of a year.
Will a player of his superstar potential take that risk?
If AS are telling the truth, it sounds like Felix wants to do just that.
Keep an eye on this saga.
If Felix really does want to join Newcastle, it will be interesting to see how much of their £113m outlay Atlético Madrid want to recoup.
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