Have Manchester City Missed Out On Felix?

Manchester City may have missed out on a key target for the second successive year if the rumours are correct. Reports from Spanish Newspaper AS claim Benfica forward Joao Felix is set to spurn the opportunity to join the Premier League champions in favour of a move to Atletico Madrid.

19 year old Felix scored 19 goals and made 8 assists last season, and his performances have caught not just City eyes, but also United and Real Madrid too. But it appears Atletico manager Diego Simeone has stolen a march on all three clubs and has apparently persuaded the youngster to be part of his rebuilding plans.

City were reported to be ready to meet Benfica’s £105m release clause, however with Atletico may soon have the funds in the bank if Antoine Griezmann leaves as expected this summer. Felix was reported to be unsure on a move to Madrid, but his agent, Jorges Mendez, wants the youngster to move to Atletico as an ‘intermediate’ step.

If City do miss out on the youngster, there may be some consolation with the news that midfielder Rodri is reported to be intent on leaving Atletico this summer. The Spanish international is believed t have a £62.5m release clause and has told the club he wants to leave the Spanish giants.

Manager Pep Guardiola sees the 22 year old as a long term replacement for the ageing Fernandinho, after missing out on primary target Jorginho last season to Chelsea.