João Félix is very much considered the next big thing in Portuguese football.
He only turned 19 years of age in November, but from his nine Liga NOS appearances this season the youngster has managed to score four goals and contribute an assist.
Félix burst onto the scene in August when, coming on as a late substitute for Benfica against fierce rivals Sporting, he scored the equaliser and the game finished 1-1.
Instant hero stuff.
Soon the youngster was being linked with many clubs, and Manchester United were of course right in there.
The Premier League club scouted Benfica regularly even before Jose Mourinho’s arrival, and the manager’s departure hasn’t impacted upon sending officials to matches in Lisbon.
Friday’s edition of Record has a big feature on Félix, and says United, along with Barcelona, ‘accumulate reports’ on the player, ahead of a potential transfer attempt.
Benfica are preparing for a future deal that will break the Portuguese transfer record, currently held by Hulk’s €60m move from Porto to Zenit in 2012.
In fact, it’s believed the rising star will ‘pulverise’ the figure.
Félix has a €120m release clause, which protects his club, and makes it harder for interested parties like Manchester United.
Record say United, City and Barca are all keen, and following the situation, with the Red Devils presented as the most interested.
