Arsenal have been given a lifeline in their rumoured pursuit of Atlético de Madrid man João Felix as the 23-year-old is now open to a loan move to the Premier League.
The Gunners reportedly earmarked the Rojiblancos’ club record signing for a January transfer as they scout out replacements for the injured Gabriel Jesus. There are no concrete reports from either camp on Arsenal’s interest, but it has been confirmed that the Spanish club are ready to accept any good offer for their most expensive player investment ever.
Atlético are reported to want at least €100 million for Felix, as they believe it will be a good price for the coveted youngster who they spent €126 million on in 2019.
But with the current financial situation of most clubs, especially Arsenal who need to strengthen a number of positions, they may end up lowering their asking price. Felix, who is also reported to be interested in another adventure, is ready to accept a loan move to the Premier League. The former Benfica youngster is also still interested in remaining at the Wanda Metropolitano, which could possibly mean extending his contract.
This option, as reported by Spanish outlet AS, is dependent on Diego Simeone’s decision to stay or leave his role as Atlético’s manager by the end of the season. Felix has struggled to fit into the Argentine’s system but is happy with the club, and will only consider leaving if Cholo stays beyond this season.
For this reason, Arsenal – and the other clubs who are interested in Felix – could pay an £8 million loan fee to the LaLiga giants and also cover all of his wages during the agreed loan spell.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta could choose instead to play Gabriel Martinelli in Jesus’ role in the 25-year-old’s absence.
“It’s a huge blow for us, obviously,” said Arteta of Jesus’ injury. Then he added, “He’s such an important player: he’s brought something very different to the team and it’s impossible to replace him. But we have other players, other alternatives and we’ll try to get that sorted. The transfer window is another option.
“I think [Jesus] is a unique player but Eddie [Nketiah] has incredible qualities as well for the way we want to play. We have other alternatives in that we can play Martinelli up front as well.
“We are currently a little bit short in terms of upfront positions but getting Emile [Smith Rowe] back is going to be a big one.”
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is also looking to replace the departed Cristiano Ronaldo, who left the club after a scandalous interview just before the World Cup break.
João Felix has emerged as a possible replacement for his national team captain at Old Trafford, despite the club’s sights set on Netherlands star Cody Gakpo.
