Diego Simeone is adamant Joao Felix is still an important piece of his Atletico Madrid plans, amid reports he’s tempted by a transfer to Newcastle United, via quotes by Calciomercato.
Felix has only started three of his nine La Liga appearances so far this season. He has also not opened a game since October, while playing just 97-minutes over their last six fixtures.
The 22-year-old additionally only managed 245-minutes in five possible Champions League group stage ties. He had to sit out their defeat to AC Milan with an injury that also kept him from two La Liga matches, on top of three missed earlier in the season after ankle surgery.
Simeone was also without Felix for one La Liga game in September, after referee Jesus Gil Manzano sent the Portuguese off for two yellows in a goalless draw with Athletic Bilbao.
Felix returned from suspension to start at Barcelona before recoding his only league assist this season against Real Sociedad. He also then scored his only goal at home to Real Betis.
Simeone adamant Felix is still important to Atletico Madrid
Simone is adamant Felix is still an important piece of his plans at Atletico, despite his lack of game time. But the Colchoneros boss wants to see the 20-cap dynamo show performances like he managed against Real Madrid to regain a starting role at the Wanda Metropolitano.
“Joao is an important piece for our team,” Simeone said. “What do you need to repeat to play more? Performances like the one the other day at the Bernabeu, in a great second-half where he showed all the talent he has.
“We hope he repeats it several times because he is the player we need. Joao is very good. In Portugal, many times you don’t start but end up playing. There is not much difference compared to what happens to him in Portugal with us.”
Atletico lost 2-0 at Real Madrid last week, while Simone introduced Felix as a half-time substitute. He challenged the Galacticos immediately, but could not change the scoreline.
Felix interested in Newcastle United transfer
Felix’s Atletico Madrid plight comes amid reports by AS the £113m star would be interested in a transfer to Newcastle. The Toon are assessing possible targets following the Saudi-led takeover at St James’ Park, which placed the Magpies among the richest clubs in the world.
Only Premier League teams will be able to offer the Colchoneros a price tempting enough to start discussions for Felix. English clubs are also an issue for La Liga sides, as their riches means Spanish teams face heighted valuations for their targets if battling for any deals.
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