Chelsea have entered the race to sign Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid on a loan deal in the winter transfer window.
As per Spanish publication Fichajes, Chelsea are leading the race to land Joao Felix and are willing to pay a €10 million loan fee for the player. Arsenal and Manchester United are also said to be in the queue for his service.
Atletico don’t want to continue their association with Felix as the youngster has fallen out of favour in the last few months. He had fallouts with manager Diego Simeone a number of times and it is very clear the Argentine gaffer doesn’t really view him in his long-term plans.
But offloading the 23-year-old has been their main problem as clubs are not ready to meet their asking price. His wage is posing a major problem and Rojiblancos have reluctantly admitted to the fact that they have to forego a huge amount of money in a bid to facilitate a transfer for the Portuguese international.
Chelsea will further invest to strengthen a number of positions and a forward is top of their list. Armando Broja’s injury has further deepened their crisis and Felix could be an alternative at this juncture.
Atletico would not stand in the forward’s way if a loan offer arrives but they would want the Blues to pay his wages in full. Also, a loan fee would be needed and Chelsea have hinted they are ready to fulfil the Spanish giants’ demand.
Both Arsenal and United are also assessing their options but Simeone’s club wants to insert a permanent transfer clause which would force the club to buy the player for more than £100 million and this is creating a major tussle between the clubs.
Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly bankrolled a hefty summer window and he will likely sanction another eventful window for his club. Felix showed flashes of brilliance in the World Cup and Graham Potter is ready to bet big on the player.
But the player has been inconsistent since his arrival on Spanish soil in 2019 and he might need a new challenge to reignite his old self in the Premier League.
