Manchester United could face stiff competition for Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix from Barcelona and Liverpool.
According to a report by A Bola, as relayed by Sport Witness, Liverpool and Barcelona will be engaged in a battle with Manchester United in the race to sign Joao Felix.
Felix has been a bit-part player for Atletico Madrid this season, with Diego Simeone using him sparingly. Their restrained relationship is affecting the team morale, and the youngster was not even involved in any capacity in the goalless draw against Club Brugge in the Champions League.
Atletico will be searching for potential suitors for the Portuguese forward, and the arrival of Antoine Griezmann on a permanent deal has further complicated his situation.
The Spanish giants will unlikely get any profit if they manage to get the player off their wage bill. But Atletico Madrid would be happy to recoup half the money they paid to Benfica for his services.
For Liverpool, their forwards have not touched the desired level this season, and a long-term injury to Luis Diaz has forced Jurgen Klopp to search for alternate options. Despite his poor form, Felix can thrive in the perfect atmosphere, and a move to Anfield might help him in reshaping his football career.
Barcelona are also believed to be tracking his movement and might try to convince the player in making this short trip to the Nou Camp. The Catalans welcomed Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski this summer. But Memphis Depay does not have a long-term future at Barcelona. And having experienced La Liga for the last couple of years, Felix could be of much help.
Manchester United came calling in the summer, but they refused to meet Atletico’s quoted price for the player. Cristiano Ronaldo’s imminent future is up in the air. And should the Portuguese international decide to call it a day, the Red Devils will have to dig deep for his replacement.
Both Atletico Madrid and Felix want to end the relationship prematurely, and a solution could be reached in January. A loan with an obligation to buy might be another option for the interested parties which could help the player in having a smooth transition to the new side.
