Sky Sports reporter shares Joao Felix transfer update amid Manchester United and Arsenal links
Manchester United and Arsenal have both been linked with Joao Felix in recent days.
Sky Sports claimed earlier this week that the Gunners were in negotiations with Atletico Madrid over a loan move.
On Wednesday, The Express reported that the Red Devils were also in pursuit of Felix on a similar basis.
Erik ten Hag is said to be looking for reinforcements up front following Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure.
Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta is apparently trying to bolster his attacking ranks in wake of Gabriel Jesus’ injury.
And Felix could fit the bill for either side, having become surplus to Diego Simeone’s requirements at Atletico.
However, both United and Arsenal are said to have baulked at how much Los Colchoneros want for Simeone on loan.
This is apparently in the region of £19-21million.
On Thursday, Sky reporter Dharmesh Sheth provided an update on the Felix state of play.
He claimed that the Red Devils are looking at alternative targets due to the finances.
However, the situation “can change” if Atletico drop their demands.
“The idea of Joao Felix works because it would be a loan deal,” he said on Sky Sports News (5/1/23, 17:17).
“But as of Monday, the information I’m getting is that United had moved on to other targets.
“I was told that a deal for Joao Felix was not on the agenda at all based on the terms quoted. There were no live negotiations.
“That of course can change if the figures quoted come down and the £3.5m being reported can be agreed upon.
“However, that is a big reduction from what Atletico are after, but the Spanish clubs terms are well in access of what United’s transfer budget is for this month.”
Great player, high loan fee – TBR View
Atletico spent £114m on recruiting Felix in the summer transfer window of 2019.
The 23-year-old had enjoyed a breakthrough season at Benfica, establishing himself as one of the top talents in European football.
However, Felix has failed to hit those same heights at Atletico. Now, it looks as though the two parties will part company.
Indeed, he was left out of Atleti’s Copa del Rey matchday squad for their clash against Real Oviedo on Wednesday evening. This suggests he’s being saved for a move.
But as good as he would be for Manchester United or Arsenal, £20m plus for a six-month loan seems a bit steep to say the least.
