Man Utd ‘want to make Joao Felix cornerstone of their team’ as transfer details emerge
Manchester United are reportedly keen on signing Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid when the transfer window reopens at the end of the season.
Posted Sunday, April 02, 2023 by Express.co.uk
Manchester United want to make Atletico Madrid star Joao Felix the 'cornerstone of their team', according to reports in Spain. The Portugal international is currently seeing out the campaign on loan at Chelsea. However, a move to Old Trafford could still take place in the summer.
Manchester United were linked with Felix back in January, shortly before the forward opted to leave Atletico Madrid on loan.
And he's done well enough during his time at Chelsea, scoring two goals from seven Premier League appearances as he continues to adjust to life in the Premier League.
While United missed out on Felix in the New Year, Mundo Deportivo claim interest in the 23-year-old remains.
It's claimed the Red Devils view the forward as a potential 'cornerstone of their team' as they look to challenge for the title next term.
United are keeping tabs on Felix during his time in west London and would want a 'favourable deal' to secure the former Benfica star.
Man Utd retain transfer interest in Atletico Madrid and Chelsea player Joao Felix
The problem is, though, Atletico aren't willing to let the youngster go on the cheap.
It's said they want as much as the £110million they spent on Felix in the summer of 2019 back.
That may be too high for United, especially given that's similar to the fees Tottenham and Napoli would demand for Harry Kane and Victor Osimhen.
The report says Atletico would even want to make a profit on Felix, despite allowing him to join Chelsea on loan.
For now, it appears United are awaiting developments as they eye a potential summer swoop.
But, if Felix does make the move from Spain to Old Trafford, he'd become the latest Portuguese player to feature for the club.
Cristiano Ronaldo had two stints in Manchester, first moving in 2003 before returning in 2021.
Nani and Bebe also joined during Sir Alex Ferguson's time in the dugout, with the former a particularly successful buy.
And Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot were recruited under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Jose Mourinho respectively.
Speaking last month, meanwhile, Felix opened up on his future after being asked if staying at Chelsea is dependent on the Blues qualifying for the competition.
"Yeah, playing in the Champions League is always different. It's a competition that everyone wants to play,” he said.
"But now I'm focused on this Champions League, on the game.
“We have a lot of games yet to try to reach the Champions League in the league. It's not over.
“But, yeah, playing in the Champions League is an important decision, but the future no one knows, so let's see what happens and then we'll see."
He added: "Chelsea is a team who likes to attack, who likes to have the ball, who likes to dominate the game, so that's the game I like to play.
“I feel very free to play here, to play as I like. I'm loving it.
“When I left Atletico, I thought it was good for me and for them.
“So I think it was the perfect deal. So I think it's important for me, this loan, and I'm very happy to play here."
Photos
More»
Estela Braga, a stunning Brazilian beauty
Saturday April 27 2024
Meet Eva Murati, the glamorous UCL presenter
Friday April 26 2024
Your Say