Financial crisis in Atletico Madrid, might sell Joao Felix to English Club

Striker for Portugal and Atlético Madrid Joao Felix could join Birmingham’s Aston Villa in a shock transfer.

The 23-year-old’s agent, Jorge Mendes, has begun talks with the English team over a potential move.

Earlier it was reported that Bayern Munich, PSG, Manchester United and Chelsea are interested in the services of the famous Portuguese.

Interestingly, Jorge Mendes, 56, has grown close to Villa owner Nassef Sawiris in recent months.

The pair worked quickly together to bring Emery to Villa Park from Villarreal following Steven Gerrard’s sacking.

Sawiris, meanwhile, has strong ties in Portugal and last year, explored an opportunity to buy a controlling stake in Primeira Liga side Vitória S.C.

Felix was considered one of Europe’s brightest young talents when he won the 2019 Golden Boy award and completed a £113million move to Atletico Madrid from Benfica that same year.

However, his performances for Atletico have been below expectations.

For the Spanish club, the striker played 129 matches, scoring 33 goals and giving 18 assists.

Felix is ​​currently participating in the World Cup in Qatar as part of his national team.

In three games, the striker scored one accurate hit and two assists.

The CEO of Atletico, Miguel Angel Gil Marin also confirmed Felix’s desire to leave the Spanish capital amid a poor relationship with Diego Simeone.

“The relationship between Simeone and Joao Felix is not good.”

“I would like him to continue, although it is reasonable that he wants to leave. If a good offer arrives, we must analyze it.”

Atletico is also facing financial challenges that may force its hand.

The club is trying to “balance the accounts” next month after an admission by club president Enrique Cerezo.

The immediate aim is to recoup €40m after finishing bottom of their Champions League group and missing out on a contingency place in the Europa League.