Manchester United will get the chance to match any successful bid for Joao Felix as Atletico Madrid push for significant compensation.
Negotiations are continuing as Manchester United seek to secure out-of-favour Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix on a loan deal this month.
Joao Felix became Atletico’s club-record signing in 2019 when they bought him from Benfica for €126m, but has failed to fulfill his potential under Diego Simeone.
The 28-cap Portugal international has started just seven of the 15 LaLiga games available to him this campaign but has hit some form recently, scoring four goals in his last three games before Sunday’s 1-0 loss to Barcelona.
Joao Felix’s performances at the World Cup, along with his rediscovered eye for goal, have begun to rehabilitate a reduced transfer value – and United are said to be up for the taking.
According to the Mirror, United have been given “first option” on any deal for Joao Felix, meaning they will have 48 hours to match any offer Atletico deem acceptable.
United are understood to have tabled a loan offer, including a £3m (€3.4m) fee, while also covering the 23-year-old’s wages, but that bid was rejected.
In return, Atletico proposed a £9.5m (€10.8m) loan fee as well as a commitment to a mandatory £70.5m (€80.2m) transfer fee at the end of the season.
The report also included information that the Spanish side are awaiting an offer from Arsenal, while Fichajes adds that the Rojiblancos are keen on United youngster Alejandro Garnach – a former member of Atletico’s youth academy.