Report: 'World class' player is now more likely to join Aston Villa than Arsenal

By Sam Preston

Aston Villa are now leading the hotly-contested race to sign Portugal World Cup star Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid.

Spanish outlet Marca have claimed that Unai Emery is lining up a hugely ambitious swoop during his first transfer window in charge.

That would see him beating a whole host of clubs, including his former employers, who will be without Gabriel Jesus for an extended period.

Jesus has had surgery on an injury picked up for Brazil at the World Cup, while Villa need a boost during Emery’s maiden transfer market.

Felix now more likely to join Villa than Arsenal

Atletico CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin said of Felix: “Signing him was the biggest bet the club has made in its history.

“I think he is a top world-class player, but because of the relationship with the coach, his playing time, his motivation… it’d be reasonable to analyse an option for him to depart if one arrives.

“It’s reasonable to think that he might leave, although I’d love him to stay. But that’s not the player’s plan.”

On paper, it would be a huge coup for Villa to get Felix under the noses of some established superpowers across Europe.

They have been here before slightly with Philippe Coutinho, who started off well on loan before tailing off this season when he came in permanently.

That said, Felix is younger and doing the business on the world stage right now, although Relevo report Atletico have set an eye-watering asking price which would surely price Villa out if it is accurate.