Arsenal and Manchester United have now been given a boost as Atlético Madrid publicly put Joao Felix up for sale.
What’s the story?
Well, it was journalist Paul Brown who told Give Me Sport in October that Arsenal have admired the Portugal international for years, and would jump at the chance to sign him.
Elsewhere, The Times claimed that Manchester United are interested in Felix.
Now, a bidding war between the Gunners and the Red Devils could be about to commence, as Gil Marin – Chief Executive Officer of Atlético Madrid – publicly told TVE that he will listen to offers.
Interestingly, the poor relationship between Felix and Diego Simeone is mentioned as the reason behind that decision.
Fabrizio Romano quotes the 59-year-old as saying: “Joao Felix is top level but because of his relationship with Simeone and game time, we feel that it makes sense to consider potential bids to sell him.”
Atlético Madrid paid a staggering £113m to sign the 23-year-old from Benfica back in 2019 as a replacement for Antoine Griezmann, although he has scored just 33 goals in 129 appearances for the Spanish giants.
So far this season, Felix has scored four goals in 18 outings.
According to Cadena SER, Atlético Madrid’s shock exit from the Champions League at the Group Stage hurt them financially, and sales are needed to balance the books, which is another reason why Marin has publicly put the striker up for sale.
Arsenal & Manchester United must act
In our view, this is a huge opportunity for Arsenal or Manchester United, and they must react.
Yes, things have not gone well by any means for Felix at the Wanda Metropolitano, although there is no denying that he is one of the best prospects on the planet, and was being mentioned in the same breath as Kylian Mbappe before joining Atlético Madrid.
The Times believe a sum of £86m will be required, and while that may seem costly, it would prove to be a bargain if he fulfils his phenomenal potential in English football.
Be sure to keep an eye on the situation, as Felix could soon be moving to the Premier League.
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