JOAO FELIX was left out of Atletico Madrid’s victory over Real Oviedo fuelling the fire around a potential move away from the Spanish capital.
Atletico overcame their opposition 2-0 in the Copa del Rey without the influence of the Portuguese playmaker who wasn’t in the squad at all.
Joao Felix has made 130 appearances for Atletico Madrid since signing for the side in 2019
The reason for his absence is a mystery with some reports suggesting he was injured and others saying that Atletico are trying to avoid him getting injured to ensure a move away for the star.
Felix has been linked to a number of Premier League clubs including Manchester United and Chelsea.
Despite being Atletico’s record signing the 23-year-old has fallen out of favour with manager Diego Simeone since making the £113million move from Benfica.
It is reported the club are willing to let him leave on loan, but that they expect an eye-watering £10.5m loan fee to convince them to part with his talents.
Atletico CEO, Miguel Angel Gil Marin, conceded that the club are considering letting Felix leave because of his fractured relationship with the manager.
He said: “For reasons it isn’t worth getting into – the relationship between him and the boss [Simeone], the minutes played, his motivation right now.
“It makes you think if there’s a reasonable option that’s good for the player, good for the club, we can look at it. I’d love for Joao to continue, but this is the current situation.”
Man United are said to be in negotiation with the Spanish club, but are way off their valuation for Felix.
The Red Devils are now without Cristiano Ronaldo and in need of a replacement after missing out on Cody Gakpo to Liverpool.
Chelsea are also keen to lure him to Stamford Bridge with the Blues failing to recruit the right forward after multiple failed attempts.
Arsenal are also reportedly interested in Felix as they search for a replacement for the injured Gabriel Jesus.
The Portugal star played a big part in his nation’s run during the World Cup and has managed four goals and three assists in 13 league appearances for Atletico this season.