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Chelsea are reported to be close to signing Atletico Madrid striker Joao Felix on loan until the end of 2022/23 season.
The 23-year old forward has been rumored to be unhappy at his current club due to disagreements with manager Diego Simeone and wants to join a new club this month.
The Portuguese forward played for his country at the recent Qatar World Cup, scoring once in five appearances for the side before they were knocked out of the competition.
Felix Linked with Many Moves this Month
A number of Europe’s elite sides have been linked with the striker this month, with Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United perhaps the most linked in recent days.
However, Chelsea now appear to be the forerunners for Felix’s signature and look set to sign the Portuguese on loan until the end of this season. The news comes after the club have stated that they will continue with Graham Potter as manager after coming under criticism after a poor run of recent form.
Potter replaced Thomas Tuchel as head coach earlier this season but the ex-Brighton & Hove Albion boss has not found it easy sailing at the London club amidst injuries and pressure from the fans, who expect the club to be competing for Premier League glory.
The side currently find themselves in 10th place, 19 points off leaders Arsenal, who were also linked with Felix.
Potter and new Chelsea owner Todd Boehly will be hoping that Felix makes an impact up front for the side after their striking talent, including Romelu Lukaku and Armando Broja have struggled for form.
A lack of goals has led to the Blues struggling in competitions where they feel they should be much more competitive. Chelsea were beaten by Manchester City by four goals to nil in the FA Cup last weekend and really need to gain some momentum if they are to win back the support of fans.
Felix Record with Atleti
Felix has been out of favor at Atletico but has still managed a relatively good record on the field of play despite starting very little games.
The Portuguese star has played twice since returning from the World Cup and overall, he has appeared 20 times for Atleti, scoring five goals and providing three assists for Simeone’s side.
The striker joined Atletico back in July of 2019 for a blockbuster fee of 127.2 million euros from Benfica. The forward is still contracted until 2026 and will demand a hefty fee, or loan fee, if he is to switch clubs.
Recently, Felix’s super agent, Jorge Mendes, was reported to have held an urgent meeting with Atleti officials in an attempt to push through a loan move for Felix. However, there was reported to be disagreements over the player’s loan fee valuation, with Atletico looking for a fee close to 11 million pounds for Felix’ serivces.
Joao Felix helped Atleti to the La Liga title in 2020/21 to see them become Spanish Champions. The Portuguese has netted 34 goals and provided 18 assists for his club since joining Simeone’s setup in 2019. However, the defensively minded side have not allowed Felix the chances a high caliber striker of his ilk might prefer.
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