Enrique Cerezo admits Joao Felix could stay at Atletico Madrid amidst Manchester United interest
Atletico Madrid CEO Enrique Cerezo has admitted that Joao Felix could end up staying at the La Liga outfit in January amidst interest from Manchester United.
The Red Devils, along with Arsenal, have been linked with a move for the Portugal international in the ongoing transfer window. However, the Spanish giants’ demands for the 23-year-old’s loan move have made a deal difficult.
Felix’s agent Jorge Mendes had also put forth the Old Trafford side’s offer recently for the forward’s temporary move to Manchester. However, it was rejected by Los Rojiblancos.
Speaking to radio show Carrusel Deportivo (h/t Mirror), Cerezo has revealed that the 23-year-old remaining at the Madrid-based club would not be out of the ordinary.
“Nothing is impossible in life, but the normal thing is that Joao Felix stays at Atletico Madrid.”
Felix joined Atletico in the summer of 2019 from SL Benfica. However, the Portuguese star has failed to fulfil expectations in Spain as of yet. However, the forward impressed with Portugal at the 2022 World Cup.
Arsenal are currently in need of a new attacker after Gabriel Jesus was sidelined. The Gunners are currently at the top of the Premier League table but seemingly lack strength in depth.
As for United, the 23-year-old’s compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo recently parted ways with the Red Devils midway through the campaign. As a result, Erik ten Hag has an evident lack of options in the number nine position.
Felix is not an out-and-out goalscorer or target man. However, the 23-year-old is versatile enough to play in any position across the front line.
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However, Atletico seem to have no intention of negotiating a deal for the Portuguese. Thus, there is no point in wasting our time finding a solution. Instead, it would be wise for the club to pursue other targets and get them in as soon as possible.