Aston Villa have been named as a potential destination for Atletico Madrid outcast Joao Felix, who looks set to depart the Spanish capital this summer.
Felix spent the second half of last season on loan at Chelsea, but was unable to shine as the side struggled under Graham Potter and later Frank Lampard.
A report from ABC in Spain has claimed that Villa, Newcastle and Manchester United are three possible clubs Felix could look to join this summer, with it clear that he has no future at Atletico Madrid.
His shirt number has been taken by Antoine Griezmann, and he is seemingly keen on returning to the Premier League rather than continuing in Spain.
His agent Jorge Mendes has a good relationship with Unai Emery, having previously been involved in the deal to take the Spaniard to Villa Park, and this could give Villa the upper hand when trying to sign the 23-year-old.
Villa are interested in an attacking player, and have been linked with the likes of Moussa Diaby, but whilst Felix would be a high-profile signing, it remains unclear whether Emery plans to use him as a striker, on the wings or even in midfield.
Where did it go wrong for Felix in Madrid?
Atletico’s insistence on finding a new home for their record signing does raise questions about how such a talented player finds himself at a crossroads so early on in his career.
Although he has shown flashes of talent in his time in Madrid, his attacking style, based on creativity and flair, always seemed to be at odds with Diego Simeone’s more defensive approach.
His strike partner Alvaro Morata once described Felix as a “special talent,” but despite occasional glimpses of what the pair could be capable of, Felix never settled properly at the Civitas Metropolitano Stadium.
A new environment and the trust of Emery could help him thrive in the Premier League, if Villa can beat off the competition for his signature.
