ARSENAL have reportedly made a move to sign Atletico Madrid ace Joao Felix.
Portugal star Felix is keen to leave the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium after three years in the Spanish capital.
Atletico are willing to let the 22-year-old leave on loan provided they receive £8million for his services.
And it’s claimed Premier League leaders Arsenal have made overtures to sign the forward.
That’s according to the Daily Mail, who claim the Gunners have “asked the Spaniards about taking on their £114million man on loan for the remainder of the season.
Arsenal’s Premier League rivals Chelsea and Manchester United were also said to have been interested in signing Felix.
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But it’s claimed the duo have been put off by Atletico’s demands to have Felix’s astronomical wages paid in full.
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is eager to bring in attacking reinforcements following Gabriel Jesus’ knee injury – which will keep him on the sidelines until March.
The Spaniard said of Jesus’ injury: “It’s a huge blow for us, obviously.
“He’s such an important player: he’s brought something very different to the team and it’s impossible to replace him.
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“But we have other players, other alternatives and we’ll try to get that sorted.
“The transfer window is another option.
“I think [Jesus] is a unique player but Eddie [Nketiah] has incredible qualities as well for the way we want to play.
“We have other alternatives in that we can play Martinelli up front as well.
“We are currently a little bit short in terms of upfront positions but getting Emile [Smith Rowe] back is going to be a big one.”
Arsenal made a move for Shakthar Donetsk forward Mykhaylo Mudryk this week – tabling a £55m bid for the Ukranian.
But their opening offer was rejected by Shakhtar – who want a whopping £85m for the forward.
Arsenal will be back in action on New Year’s Eve, travelling to the Amex to take on Brighton.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
