JUST IN: Aston Villa yet to Upgrade interest to SIGN Barcelona and Athletico Madrid prodigy.
Aston Villa’s efforts to sign Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid have reportedly hit a snag. Portuguese media suggest that the Premier League club has made no headway in their negotiations for the player.
Villa is eyeing Felix as a potential replacement for Moussa Diaby, who recently moved to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. However, talks for the Portuguese international seem to have stalled, leaving his future uncertain.
Felix, who joined Atletico Madrid in 2019 for a record fee, has had a tumultuous time at the Spanish club. After falling out with manager Diego Simeone, he’s been loaned out twice and is unlikely to play for Atletico again.
The 24-year-old has been linked with a return to his former club Benfica, as well as attracting interest from Aston Villa. Villa manager Unai Emery and sporting director Monchi are reportedly keen on acquiring Felix, along with Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams.
Portuguese outlet Record claims that despite Villa’s interest, there’s been no progress in negotiations. The Premier League club is reportedly considering a loan deal rather than a permanent transfer.
Felix’s recent loan spell at Barcelona yielded mixed results, with 10 goals and 6 assists in 44 appearances. Financial constraints prevented Barcelona from pursuing a permanent deal.
In other transfer news, Aston Villa forward Jhon Duran is reportedly close to joining West Ham United. Football Insider suggests that personal terms have been agreed, with a transfer fee of around £35 million expected.