Aston Villa have reportedly identified Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix as a concrete summer transfer target.

There has been much speculation in recent weeks that the Portuguese international is a sought-after addition to the head coach role. Unai Emery.

However, given the financial resources involved in his transfer to Atlético in 2019, there are significant doubts as to whether negotiating a deal is realistic.

Although Villa have secured a place in next season’s Champions League, they have already spent part of the current transfer window complying with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules.

Furthermore, they are said to be on the verge of pushing through a £50million deal for the Everton midfielder Amadou Onana.

©Reuters

Diaby sale should boost Felix hopes

Nevertheless, Villa are expected to soon be in a position where they will see their coffers significantly filled by the sale of Moussa Diaby.

Should the France international move to Al-Ittihad for a transfer fee of £60million, Villa will be looking for a replacement.

According to talkSPORTVilla officials are seriously considering taking over Felix’s services.

Despite the player costing £113million five years ago, Atlético will have to be realistic about the value if they want to sell the versatile playmaker.

Felix’s contract with Civitas Metropolitano still has five years to run, meaning there is no chance of a bargain.

But if Felix has no future at Atlético, the hierarchy at the Spanish club will do everything they can to find a positive solution as soon as possible.

©Reuters

Barcelona continue to hunt for a reunion with Felix, who has scored 10 goals and six assists in 44 games in all competitions.

However, the Catalan giants are still waiting for the Athletic Bilbao winger’s release clause to be activated Nico WilliamsIs a move – permanent or temporary – realistically out of the question for Felix?

That can Villas and Benfica– another former club of Felix – hope to convince him to continue his career at their respective clubs.

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