Atletico Madrid News
Arsenal take lead in the race for Atletico Madrid misfit wanted by Man United
According to the latest report from MARCA, Arsenal have taken the lead in the race to secure the signing of Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix, who is also a target for Manchester United.
The 23-year-old is headed for the exit doors this coming January as was recently confirmed by club CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin.
The Portuguese international has had a falling out with manager Diego Simeone and is keen on securing an exit at the earliest possible, with his agent, Jorge Mendes, working hard to find him a way out of the Civitas Metropolitano.
There have been rumours of interest from the likes of Chelsea and PSG, while Manchester United have also been linked with a move for Felix, especially following the exit of Cristiano Ronaldo, who was released by the club earlier this month.
However, as per the aforementioned report, Arsenal may have taken the lead in the race to sign Felix as things stand.
The Gunners are also being forced into the market for an attacking reinforcement after Gabriel Jesus had to undergo surgery to treat an injury.
The Brazilian is set to face a prolonged time out on the sidelines, which will leave Arsenal thin on options in the No. 9 role, something which Mikel Arteta wants to address as he looks to lead the team to the Premier League title.
To that end, Felix has emerged as a possible target for the north London club, with the report going as far as claiming that they are currently ahead in the race for the 23-year-old forward.
Aston Villa are also said to be interested in Felix, although the player does not look at them as a viable option.
It remains to be seen if there is any truth to these claims or whether it is just another rumour going through the media. But what is certain is that Felix is on his way out of the Civitas Metropolitano in the near future.
Sofyan Amrabat is a player in demand, with the midfielder reportedly a top target for various clubs during the January transfer window, as confirmed by his brother.
However, Atletico Madrid are also keeping tabs on the Moroccan international, with the club said to be interested in bringing him to Wanda Metropolitano.
According to Foot Mercato, Amrabat is keen on moving to La Liga, and Atletico Madrid are one of the clubs that he admires. The midfielder had previously praised Atleti boss Diego Simeone, further fueling speculation of a potential move to the Spanish capital.
Atletico Madrid’s interest in Amrabat comes in the midst of uncertainty over the future of Axel Witsel.
The Fiorentina star could be a possible replacement for the Belgian midfielder, whose contract at the club expires at the end of the season, with his father hinting at a possible exit.
However, Atleti would face competition from Barcelona in the pursuit of Amrabat, who appears to be prioritising a move to Camp Nou. The Moroccan international could potentially become an excellent alternative for Barça’s top target, Martin Zubimendi.
However, Fiorentina is unlikely to let the midfielder go cheaply, and Barcelona would have to sort out their economic situation to afford him.
That is where Atletico Madrid might look to get ahead of the Catalans. Although the Spanish giants are also struggling with finances, they may still be able to swoop in and secure the services of the Fiorentina star come the end of the season.
It is too early to deduce anything just yet. A lot will be uncovered as we enter the final phase of the season. Amrabat himself will be keen on making a definitive decision on his future, as he looks to take the next step in his career.
