Manchester United and Chelsea are set for talks with Joao Felix, with Newcastle United also hoping to pursue the Portuguese attacker.
According to a report by Daily Mirror, Manchester United, Chelsea and Newcastle United will have their hands full regarding their interest in Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix.
It appears Joao Felix could be free from his Atletico Madrid misery as the 23-year-old has never been able to put his talent to some use at the Civitas Metropolitano. The Spanish giants splashed a club record fee of €126 million to Benfica for his services. But that has proven to be a big backlog in their finances.
Manchester United have been in the market for a goalscorer, and Felix might be their answer to it. Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure would mean his goals need to be replaced, and Felix could fill in his compatriot’s boots. And recent reports have claimed that Felix prefers a move to Manchester United.
Nowadays, managers prefer to have a more flexible attacker who can offer their expertise from different kinds of positions. And the Atletico Madrid forward can be deployed centrally, behind the main striker and even on the wings. Felix’s familiarity with both Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot might provide Manchester United with an extra edge.
As for the interest from Chelsea, Armando Broja’s untimely injury has forced them to scupper their plans. And they will be in for an attacking reinforcement in January. They already have a pre-agreement in place for Christopher Nkunku, But Chelsea will likely feel the need to link up with another attacker.
However, the Blues do have a similar kind of player in Kai Havertz who is yet to dominate matches for them. Felix’s goalscoring ability will be put to test in the English conditions, and he must be prepared for it. Meanwhile, Newcastle United’s recent displays should allow them to have a big shot at Felix. But the Portuguese national’s priority will be to compete in the Champions League.
As of now, the Magpies have shown that intent. But after the current World Cup break, their momentum could shiftm and that could take a toll on their transfer decisions. It remains to be seen if Eddie Howe manages to convince Felix to test his mettle at the St. James’ Park. Otherwise it could be a straight fight between Manchester United and Chelsea.
