Player who rejected Arsenal hints that Mikel Arteta could now get 2nd chance to sign him

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Arsenal were rejected by Joao Felix back in January as Mikel Arteta looked to bring a new forward to the Emirates Stadium.

It was The Athletic who claimed that the Portuguese international turned down the Gunners.

Felix is said to have been more attracted to the project at Chelsea, with Manchester United also rejected by the Atlético Madrid attacker.

Now, the 23-year-old has hinted that Arsenal could have a second chance to sign him.

What’s the story?

Well, Felix may be regretting his decision.

As things stand, the Chelsea No.11 has only tasted victory once since joining the Blues, while he personally has only managed to score one goal in five appearances as Graham Potter’s side struggle to gel in attack.

Contrastingly, Arsenal are flying, and sit five points clear at the top of the Premier League as Felix sits tenth.

Now, ahead of Chelsea’s clash with Borussia Dortmund at Stamford Bridge, Felix has hinted that qualification for the Champions League will be an important factor when he decides on his next club this summer.

The Portuguese sensation said: “Playing Champions League, it’s an important decision, but, the future, nobody knows, so let’s see what happens.”

Crucially, Chelsea did not negotiate an option to buy Felix in their loan agreement with Atlético Madrid, so the forward could go anywhere he wants this summer.

Arsenal should resurrect Joao Felix interest

In our view, Arteta should jump at the opportunity to sign Felix if he does decide against a permanent move to Chelsea.

The 23-year-old seems to be an ideal type of forward for the Spaniard’s style of play, as he is extremely comfortable on the ball, and also tenacious enough to press effectively.

In truth, Felix is very similar to Gabriel Jesus.

Arteta also thrives when it comes to developing young talent, and there are few better prospects around – there’s a reason why Atlético Madrid once paid £113m for Felix.

If Chelsea finish outside of the top four this season, be sure to keep an eye on the situation.