Atlético reportedly give thumbs-up to João Félix sale

Reports from the past week have indicated that João Félix is close to leaving Atlético Madrid in the January market, but how likely is it that he actually moves? And which clubs are the most interested?

According to both Marca and Diario AS, the Portuguese attacker could be on his way out with the club finally admitting that his situation must be resolved. Félix has tasked his agent, Jorge Mendes, with finding him a club.

The ex-Benfica star has impressed so far at the World Cup. He is a starter for Portugal under Fernando Santos, something he can not say about Diego Simeone’s Atlético. Four years into his time at Atlético, the 23-year-old has never reached double-digit goals or assists. He started 21 games in his first season but that dwindled to 14 in 2020/21 and then 13 last season. He has started five so far this season and his relationship with Simeone has deteriorated.

The price tag is set at somewhere around €100 million after Atlético signed the player for €126 million in 2019.

João Félix’s suitors seem to be the following four teams:

Bayern Munich, who reportedly offered €100 million for João Félix last summer. That just happens to be the current asking price for the player.

PSG, who are on the lookout for attacking talent with Lionel Messi set to leave the club in June for MLS side Inter Miami. They have reportedly been in contact with João Félix through their sporting director Luis Campos.

Manchester United have recently parted company with Cristiano Ronaldo and might look to strengthen their attacking depth.

Chelsea FC have also been mentioned. The Blues have new ownership in the guise of US businessman Todd Boehly.

Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images

Atlético have been disappointing this season. They currently sit fifth in the table with 21 points after 14 games, and there have been rumors of a total rebuild in the summer. The rojiblancos have also been eliminated from European football after a disastrous Champions League group stage saw them finish last in a group that included Porto, Bayer Leverkusen and Club Brugge.

Portugal have qualified for the last 16 of the World Cup and Félix will have a chance to showcase his skills at least one more time before he has to return back to Atlético duty. Atlético might be able to get a headstart on a possible squad overhaul by admitting defeat with Félix and selling him before the end of the season.