Chelsea could face competition from Manchester United for the signing of Joao Felix on a permanent deal this summer. The Portuguese forward looks set to try and force his way out of Atletico Madrid ahead of next season after enjoying his loan spell at Stamford Bridge despite the Blues' poor form.
Felix has scored just two goals in 12 appearances for Chelsea since he arrived in January but his overall performances have been impressive. The 23-year-old will return to Atletico in the summer but he is expected to try and force another move away from Spain, with Chelsea hoping to agree a permanent deal with the Spanish outfit.
United are in need of a new centre-forward after Cristiano Ronaldo left the club prior to the World Cup and his Portuguese compatriot could be the right man. Erik ten Hag has a number of underperforming attackers at Old Trafford with Anthony Martial, Wout Weghorst, Jadon Sancho and Antony all suffering from poor form.
READ MORE: Chelsea's Reece James problem that Frank Lampard needs to solve in time for Real Madrid showdown
Felix may prioritise a move to Stamford Bridge following his impressive loan spell in the second half of the 2022/23 campaign - but there are some things to consider before opting for a permanent move to west London. There is yet to be an announcement over a new permanent manager, with Frank Lampard acting as caretaker boss until the end of the season.
A new manager may not want to sign Felix at all, meaning other clubs could have the opportunity to sign the 23-year-old. Another thing that may see Chelsea avoid signing the Portugal international is the expected arrival of Christopher Nkunku from RB Leipzig.
football.london understands that Nkunku has signed a pre-contract agreement with the Blues after completing all medical tests ahead of his move this summer. This may see Todd Boehly avoid paying a huge fee for Felix, which is likely to be demanded by Atleti given his contract situation with the La Liga outfit.
Former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor has urged Ten Hag to beat Chelsea to Felix's signing this summer and move on four underperforming stars. Speaking to Football Insider, Agbonlahor said: “I really like what he’s [Felix] done so far.
“I’ve seen a different side to him at Chelsea. At Atletico, he was playing too deep and wasn’t suited to how they play.
“At Chelsea, you see him getting on the ball, twisting past players – and he’s got a bit of pace as well. I really like him, but he’s got to be more clinical.
“I don’t see any reason why Man United can’t get him. They need options if they’re in the Champions League next season.
“Martial isn’t good enough, nor is Weghorst – scrap them. Antony and Sancho haven’t been great, so you’re talking about Rashford as their only threat.
“They need help, or it could be an embarrassing time in the Champions League for them. Felix, for me, would be a good signing for them.”
READ NEXT:
Chelsea's Reece James problem that Frank Lampard needs to solve in time for Real Madrid showdown
Thiago Silva, N'Golo Kante: Chelsea injury news and return dates ahead of Real Madrid clash
Chelsea braced for key 'announcement' amid Frank Lampard uncertainty
Frank Lampard sent worrying Mykhailo Mudryk message as Chelsea face £88m transfer headache
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, views and rumours from Stamford Bridge
