The Joao Felix and Atletico Madrid saga continues and both parties have been rather coy but still open about their intentions.
At this point, The chance of the Spanish club recouping anything close to the €127million they paid to sign Joao Felix from Benfica in the summer of 2019 is slight, given how his development has stalled under Simeone’s management.
So the current strategy has the player’s agent, Jorge Mendes, trying to organise a loan move.
What clubs are interested in Félix?
Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea have all been approached, and are considering whether a move for the Portugal international. Arsenal need a replacement for the injured Gabriel Jesus and lack depth in offensive areas anyway. Manchester United are seeking replacements for Cristiano Ronaldo and Chelsea are in a period of transition.
Atletico are believed to be seeking a €21 million package, consisting of a €15m loan fee plus €6m gross salary. Joao Felix and Atletico look destined to part ways this month and the Premier League his most likely destination
Why has it not worked out for Félix at Atletico?
Atletico boss Diego Simeone has a different view of the game and a different idea of what responsibility entails. For the Argentinian, each player has to put their individual talents at the service of the collective. There have been some high points over their three and a half seasons together, but not many.
Given the size of his talent and transfer fee, Joao Felix’s return of 34 goals and 18 assists in 130 games is some way below what many expected.
Moving away and starting afresh could be a perfect move for both parties. A chance for Felix to get his career back on track and showcase his outstanding qualities in a different environment.
Never should have made the move in the first place, I remember saying it was a wrong move considering how Simeone likes to play…