Nigel de Jong has claimed that Tottenham and Chelsea transfer target Joao Felix is playing like Brazil legend Kaka at the Qatar World Cup for Portugal.
The 23-year-old supplied two assists as Portugal thrashed Switzerland 6-1 to book their ticket to the quarter-finals of football’s biggest tournament and de Jong was impressed by his mannerism on the pitch.
Whilst Felix has struggled during his time in Atletico Madrid colours, despite that £113 million transfer (BBC Sport), he is a player that’s probably out of place at the Metropolitano Stadium.
A player of touch, feel, flair, elegance, expert ball-carrying ability and great vision. Felix just doesn’t suit what Diego Simeone is cooking up.
That’s why there is talk of the former Benfica man possibly leaving Atletico, with the likes of Tottenham and Arsenal expressing an interest in the player.
Well, whether he heads to the Premier League or not, one thing is for sure, he is receiving high plaudits, as former Netherlands international de Jong compared him to Kaka whilst speaking to ITV Sport.
“You know what he reminds me of, Ricardo Kaka,” said de Jong. “The way he plays. The way he picks players in. Between the lines. The runs that he makes.
“It’s so crucial for the passes that he made and the final passes. This link-up play was fantastic. Portugal have a bright future with these guys (Goncalo Ramos and Felix) up top.”
FELIX WOULD COOK IN THE PREMIER LEAGUE
Someone like Roberto Firmino has been outstanding over the years in the Premier League and he is a prime example that Felix can cook on the English stage.
The only question is, whose doorstep will he land on? Chelsea are keen and have splashed crazy money since new owner Todd Boehly replaced Roman Abramovich.
Whilst Tottenham also need a player of his ilk, but he just doesn’t suit Antonio Conte’s system.
Aston Villa have popped up as a surprise name, but they can’t provide the Portugal talent with European football, nevermind the Champions League, so that puts them well on the back foot.
Either way, Felix’s next stop should be playing under an attack-minded manager in the Champions League because his skills are calling for it.
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