Lusail Stadium, Lusail, Qatar - November 28, 2022. Portugal's Joao Felix in action with Uruguay's Guillermo Varela.
Aston Villa are holding ‘conversations’ about the possibility of signing Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.
The Lowdown: Mendes pushing move
The Portuguese is set for a move away from the Metropolitano Stadium in January after Atletico chief Miguel Angel Gil Marin admitted that an exit is on the cards following a falling out with manager Diego Simeone.
Premier League clubs Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United have all been credited with an interest, though Jorge Mendes, the 23-year-old’s agent, is allegedly pushing for a move to the Midlands due to his existing strong relationship with the hierarchy.
The Latest: Jones’ update
Speaking to GiveMeSport, Jones revealed that NSWE are currently in talks regarding a potential approach for Felix, but insisted that their target won’t come cheap.
“You have to consider Aston Villa as being genuinely in the picture here because he has been pushed in their direction and there are conversations being had about it.
“I just think it’s unclear at the moment over whether that is genuinely doable from a financial standpoint mainly.
“Even if he is available on loan, there are still going to be payments to be made which are seriously significant. There’s a lot to be taken into account.”
The Verdict: Massive coup
Felix has been described as a ‘beautiful’ player to watch by Jacek Kulig and it would be a massive coup for Villa should they be able to beat their competitors to his signature.
The attacker has posted an astonishing 102 goal contributions in 216 appearances throughout his career and offers plenty of versatility, having previously operated in three different attacking positions (Transfermarkt).
Atletico are reportedly looking for at least £100m to seal a permanent deal so a loan would be more affordable, though he is definitely a player worth cashing out for if the opportunity was to arise.
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