Portuguese newspaper Correio da Manhã reports Aston Villa and Manchester City have both ditched any plans to sign João Félix from Atletico Madrid this summer.
The report sets the ground for Benfica to have a clear run at the Portugal international so there’s a chance a little local bias is at play here.
Félix is currently on holiday after his participation at Euro 2024. He’s due to return to Atletico in the coming days, but Diego Simeone doesn’t want him there and would like to avoid the awkwardness of him arrive for pre-season.
Benfica want to take advantage of this to agree a bargain loan deal, or even a permanent transfer.
Correio da Manhã report Aston Villa and Manchester City are unwilling to go through with a deal, which makes Benfica the best chance for Atletico.
Aston Villa have been repeatedly linked with a move for the attacker, Manchester City not so much. There’s no indication why Villa are walking away from the possibility.
Félix spent last season on loan at Barcelona and it was thought he wanted to stay there, but they don’t have the finances to move right now and don’t appear to see him as a priority.
Benfica have a rough idea of paying €30m for 50% of the player’s rights, which simply means Atletico being entitled to 50% of any future transfer.
They’re working to lower any initial outlay.
