Atletico Madrid are “open to offering” Joao Felix in their bid to sign Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez, according to HITC Football.
The former Chelsea loanee is not in Atletico’s plans, having returned from a spell at Barcelona, and the Premier League champions could have the chance of securing the Portuguese international’s signature.
At the moment, though, there is nothing to suggest that the Cityzens are keen on recruiting Felix, especially as they are still hoping to keep hold of Alvarez.
HITC report that Pep Guardiola’s side are adamant that the Argentinian forward is not for sale, despite Atletico’s interest in the player.
Why are Atletico persisting with their attempts to buy Alvarez?
The La Liga side are very much aware that the 24-year-old is unhappy at the Etihad. The striker is said to be keen on being a more important member of the squad.
Despite starting 39 times in all competitions last season, Alvarez was left out for some big games, including the two legs against Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-final, and the last four Premier League fixtures.
Atletico also reportedly believe that Alvarez is keen on a switch to the Wanda Metroplitano. With neither Real Madrid nor Barcelona said to be in the race for his signature, he is aware that Atletico would be his only option if he wants to join a Spanish club.
City’s valuation is likely to make negotiations long and protracted
It is believed that Atletico are only willing to spend £70m on Alvarez if they can’t include Felix as part of their offer, and that fee is expected to be well below City’s asking price.
With Barca, Real and Paris Saint-Germain all unlikely to enter a bidding war, though, Atletico may feel they can stick to their guns in terms of how much they are prepared to pay.
