Manchester United have made contact to sign Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix on loan in January, according to reports.

The Lowdown: Free to leave

The Portuguese maestro still has three-and-a-half years remaining on his contract in La Liga but has been told that he is free to leave in the winter following a falling out with manager Diego Simeone.

The Red Devils have been credited with a long-term interest in the 23-year-old in the report from 90min, and after Atletico chief Miguel Angel Gil Marin admitted that an exit for Felix seems likely, there’s a chance that the player could be on his way to the Premier League.

The Latest: Man United make contact over Felix

According to 90min, Felix’s representatives have ‘spoken’ to United, Arsenal and Chelsea regarding a potential move in the New Year, with the trio having all ‘expressed an interest’ in getting a deal done.

All three clubs have ‘held talks’ in the past week, and whilst Atletico are ‘prepared to agree’ an initial loan move, they are ‘looking to insert’ a permanent transfer clause for a fee in the region of £100m.

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The Verdict: No-brainer

Felix has been dubbed a ‘nightmare for defenders’ by Football Talent Scout's Jacek Kulig, and splashing the cash on him in January is something United shouldn’t even have to think twice about.

The forward has posted a return of 51 goal contributions in 129 appearances at the Wanda Metropolitano and is a versatile player with the ability to operate in numerous different positions (Transfermarkt).

The Portugal international would certainly be able to contribute to Erik ten Hag’s side in their hunt for a top-four finish, although a decision on whether to buy him permanently could only be made next summer.