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Arsenal lead Manchester United in the race for Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix
Premier League table-toppers Arsenal are leading Manchester United in the race for the signature of Atletico Madrid star Joao Felix, according to Spanish outlet Marca (h/t Manchester Evening News).
The 23-year-old is set to leave Los Rojiblancos in the coming months. From the English top flight, along with the Gunners and the Red Devils, Chelsea are also interested in the Portugal international.
However, Mikel Arteta’s team are ahead of the pack to get the forward in January. However, the La Liga outfit want a fee in the region of £86 million for him.
The Blues signed Pierre Emrick Aubameyanf and Raheem Sterling in the summer of 2022 to bolster their attack. However, the Stamford Bridge side are not having the best of campaigns.
On the other hand, Arsenal are flying high at the moment. But Gabriel Jesus has been sidelined after picking up an injury at the 2022 World Cup. Arteta only has Eddie Nketiah backing the Brazilian in the number nine position.
As for United, Cristiano Ronaldo left the club midway through the season. The 37-year-old’s untimely departure has left Erik ten hag with little option up front.
Anthony Martial is the only natural striker in the squad at the moment. Unfortunately, injuries have been a big issue for the 27-year-old this season.
Marcus Rashford has been deployed by the Dutch manager in the number nine position for most of the campaign. While the England international has done well, he leaves a lot to be desired in front of the goal.
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Felix has not lived up to his expectations since joining Atletico from SL Benfica. However, the 23-year-old showed glimpses of his talent in Qatar with Portugal. But unless Los Rojiblancos lower their asking price considerably, it would be wise for the club to look at other options.
