24 March 2023 , 11:19
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Manchester United have changed their tune on a deal for Joao Felix and are ready to launch a sensational summer swoop for his services if Chelsea decide against signing the on-loan Atletico Madrid ace on a permanent basis.
United were one of the Premier League clubs who were mulling over an approach for Felix back in the January transfer window but decided against firming up their interest in the wake of Atletico's mammoth demands, which included a staggering £10million loan fee.
Felix, 23, instead finalised a temporary switch to Chelsea and has impressed at Stamford Bridge - so much so that United could rekindle their interest in the Portuguese forward if he returns to Spain at the end of the season.
According to Spanish outlet AS, United could return with a fresh proposal for Felix in the summer. The report claims that the Red Devils have continued to monitor Felix's progress at Chelsea and are hopeful that the LaLiga giants will be open to negotiating terms on a more favourable deal in the summer transfer window.
It is believed that Chelsea are still mulling over whether to turn Felix's loan deal permanent in the wake of the £80m price tag that Atletico have slapped on the former Benfica star.
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And that inflated price could also have major implications on Manchester United's ability to swoop in for Felix given Erik ten Hag has more pressing priorities in the summer.
The Dutchman is known to be in the market for an elite No.9; Harry Kane and Victor Osimhen have been mooted as United's top targets and either one would cost a premium price.
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Manchester United have changed their tune on a deal for Joao Felix (James Williamson/AMA)Given Ten Hag's need for an orthodox No.9, it remains to be seen whether he or the Old Trafford hierarchy would sanction such a big deal for Felix - particularly if it would impact their ability to sign a top-class striker.
Intriguingly, Chelsea could find themselves in a similar position - which would leave Felix in limbo. Blues boss Graham Potter has stressed that he has been impressed with the Atletico ace since his arrival, but it's believed the Londoners also have their sights set on acquiring a traditional No.9 in the summer.
Speaking earlier this month, Potter said of Felix: "Well we’re really happy with him – provided he’s not tackling anybody on the half-way line! His quality is clear, in terms of: he can receive the ball in tight spaces, makes things happen from an attacking perspective. I think he’s hit the bar twice, scored as well and had some other chances. So he’s got that quality as well to finish.
"The fact that he can play in a few positions is good. We’ve tended to use him more centrally but he has the ability to play pretty much anywhere in the attacking phase of the game."