Newcastle United are on Atletico Madrid's list of possible destinations for Joao Felix after Chelsea opted against a permanent deal for the forward.
The 23-year-old was loaned to the Blues and scored four times but new boss Mauricio Pochettino does not want the star next season. Atletico chiefs are now looking for a new home for Felix with a loan deal seeming likely.
Chronicle Live understands that Atletico chiefs are receptive to the idea of a move to Newcastle but sources in Spain have also indicated there are "three to four clubs" from the Premier League who are already queuing up for Felix's signature for 2023/24. And there is also interest in Turkey with Galatasaray also keen.
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The Magpies could offer Felix Champions League action next season and Atletico like the idea of him boosting his profile in Europe's premier competition. As things stand Eddie Howe and Dan Ashworth are still mulling over a plethora of attacking options but given Howe's reputation for getting the best out of highly-technical players of Felix's ilk, Atletico's bosses feel the youngster can benefit from a move to Newcastle after his Chelsea struggles.
A chunky fee of £88million is the asking price for Felix, which Newcastle would be unlikely to entertain but there is thought to be room for negotiation and a possible loan deal that leads to a permanent move should he be a success remains an option. United, Spurs and Aston Villa are all looked at as good destinations for Felix.
Felix originally cost Atletico £113million from Benfica in 2019 with the La Liga side looking to recoup a portion of that fee via an expensive £11million loan fee this summer. Felix's issue at Atletico is that he has fallen out of favour with Diego Simeone but the club chiefs are working on a deal that suits all parties.
Portugal international Felix did not hit the heights in a struggling Chelsea team - missing a sitter on the final day against Newcastle in the 1-1 draw - but has netted 57 senior goals for Benfica, Atletico and the Blues. His wages are reportedly around £244,000 per week but the Madrid club may be prepared to pay a percentage.
