Arsenal have started working on a deal for Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix as they have initiated discussion with his entourage.
As per Sport Witness, Arsenal are in discussion with Joao Felix’s agent over the possibility of a move. The 23-year-old starred for Portugal in the World Cup but was unable to lead his country to ultimate glory.
Felix could be one of the most high-profile names who could be leaving in January as the Portuguese international has already reiterated his desire to accept a fresh challenge.
His on-and-off relationship with Atletico manager Diego Simeone has been one of the main reasons behind the downfall and the Spanish club will entertain bidders in January but a deal won’t come that cheap.
The burning desire to acquire the rights of the player could see Arsenal competing with the likes of Manchester United who have also joined the queue to take the player under their folds.
Felix revived his form to some extent in the World Cup and that could add some major value to his already shrinking price. Rojiblancos paid a whopping £113 million for the player and would be looking to recoup at least half of that invested amount.
Atletico’s Champions League heartbreak means they also have to take care of their financial activities and offloading him could be the start of the proceedings. The youngster is thought to be one of the highest-paid players at the Wanda Metropolitano.
Arsenal will be without Gabriel Jesus for a prolonged period and Mikel Arteta would be happy to welcome Felix to the Emirates. He could suit his flexible operating system as the youngster will have the licence to roam around the park to affect the opponent’s defence.
An initial loan move with an option to make it permanent could be an option but his hefty wage could be problematic as the forward will be reluctant to take a pay cut at his new destination.
But the North Londoners are one of the few clubs who could afford those massive salaries and a bidding war could be ignited next month.
