Sport
Chelsea, Man Utd, Newcastle – which Premier League would be the best fit for Joao Felix?
Portugal might have suffered a shock exit from the 2022 World Cup at the hands of Morocco, but Joao Felix still managed to shine for his national team. The 23-year-old’s talent has always been apparent. This, however, was the first time many fans have seen Felix produce a consistent run of form for club or country.
Most agree Atletico Madrid has been a bad fit for Felix. The Portuguese attacker is restricted by Diego Simeone’s conservative approach and needs a fresh start at a new club to get his career back on track. But which Premier League club would be best for Felix? Here are four potential options.
Chelsea
The World Cup break came at a good time for Chelsea as Graham Potter continues to remould the squad he inherited in his own image. The former Brighton boss has experimented with different shapes and formations and the signing of Felix would help him toggle between different approaches such is his flexibility.
Recent reports claimed Chelsea are interested in Christopher Nkunku, hinting at Potter’s intention to rebuild his attack in the January transfer window. Felix could perform a similar role to Nkunku in that both attackers are versatility and bring energy and drive to their teams’ play in the final third. The Portuguese international would strengthen the Blues.
Manchester City
Manchester City’s interest in Felix is a long-standing one. Before Atletico Madrid paid a club-record fee of €126m for the teenager, the Premier League champions were widely seen as the frontrunners to sign the Portuguese youngster. Recent reports suggest they’d still like to add Felix to their squad.
Felix certainly has the technical ability to succeed in a Pep Guardiola team. Some have questioned his commitment to helping out defensively, but the 23-year-old’s performances at the 2022 World Cup suggest he is willing to perform such duties for the right manager in the right team. City would revitalise Felix.
Manchester United
Erik Ten Hag’s Manchester United are a work-in-progress, but there’s no denying the Old Trafford side have taken a step or two forward under the Dutchman. United look defensively strong with Casemiro making an impact in central midfield. However, Ten Hag still needs attacking difference makers and that’s where Felix could be useful.
Felix is capable of playing in every position across the frontline. He is also comfortable in a central role in behind a number nine. There are questions over how Felix would handle the physicality of the Premier League, but Ten Hag would have a talented player to mould in his own image should a deal be agreed.
Newcastle United
Newcastle United are flying high under Eddie Howe with the Magpies in contention for Champions League qualification. The St James’ Park club have spent wisely in the transfer market since last year’s Saudi Arabia-backed takeover, but Felix would be a statement signing and could propel them towards a top four finish.
Howe already has Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin to provide creative spark in the attacking third, but Felix would give Newcastle a different dimension. He could play as a central attacking focal point behind Callum Wilson or even as part of the midfield unit to provide more dynamism through the middle.
