
<p>Fulham piled misery on <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/chelsea-tv-schedule/">Chelsea</a> with a 2-1 victory at Craven Cottage Thursday night. It was only the club’s second ever <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/premier-league-tv-schedule/">Premier League</a> win against their west London rivals. Former Blue Willian and summer signing Carlos Vinicius scored the goals for the home side.</p>



<p>Fulham entered the match on a high. While they stubbled into the World Cup break, the Cottagers had won all four of their games since returning to action last month. Defense is certainly an area of improvement in recent weeks. In fact, Fulham had not allowed a goal from open play since November. The only goal scored on the west London club since the break was a glorious free kick strike from James Ward-Prowse.</p>



<p>Chelsea, on the other hand, desperately needed a result on Thursday. The Blues entered the derby three points behind Fulham in the standings. Graham Potter’s men are enduring their worst start a Premier League campaign in seven seasons. Chelsea had even lost six of their last nine total matches.</p>



<h2>Winger scores against old team again</h2>



<p>Willian started the scoring in the 25th minute of the match. The former Blue cut inside on his right foot and put in a shot towards goal. Defender Trevoh Chalobah attempted to block the shot, but ended up deflecting the ball passed Kepa Arrizabalaga and into the net. Willian opted not to celebrate against his former club.</p>



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<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Willian comes back to bite the hand that used to feed him!<br><br>He doesn&apos;t celebrate out of respect to his former club. 🤝<br>📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/peacock?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@peacock</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MyPLMorning?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MyPLMorning</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FULCHE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FULCHE</a> <a href="https://t.co/zYPNsRkM2r">pic.twitter.com/zYPNsRkM2r</a></p>— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSportsSoccer/status/1613634023590400027?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p>Chelsea bounced back and leveled the scoreline less than two minutes into the second half. Kalidou Koulibaly pounced on a Mason Mount shot that struck the post from a free kick. The center back hit the ball straight at Bernd Leno, but the goalkeeper was inside his net.</p>



<h2>Felix sent off in Chelsea debut at Fulham</h2>



<p>Joao Felix’s Chelsea debut didn’t last very long. The loan player was sent off in the 58th minute for an awful challenge. A straight red card for dangerous play will mean that the forward will now also face a suspension. To make matters worse, Denis Zakaria had to be substituted just before the incident due to a lower body injury. The midfielder is now the 10th senior Chelsea player to be sidelined.</p>



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<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Joao Felix sees RED in his Chelsea debut. 🔴<br><br>📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/peacock?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@peacock</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MyPLMorning?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MyPLMorning</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FULCHE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FULCHE</a> <a href="https://t.co/xpI6mugqm7">pic.twitter.com/xpI6mugqm7</a></p>— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSportsSoccer/status/1613646894206533632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p>Fulham took advantage of the extra man and went back ahead 15 minutes after the sending off. Midfielder Andreas Pereira sent a fantastic cross into the box and Carlos Vinicius headed the shot passed a diving Kepa. It was the striker’s first goal for the team. The Chelsea keeper was in no man’s land and couldn’t get anywhere near the ball.</p>



<p>Kai Havertz had a decent chance to share the points between the two sides in added time, but the German couldn’t convert from a good opportunity. Nevertheless, Fulham collected the three points to reach sixth in the standings. Chelsea now have just seven victories in 18 Premier League matches this season.</p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / Action Plus</em></p>


Fulham beat Chelsea to move up to sixth in the Premier League standings. Joao Felix was also sent off in his debut for the Blues.

Fulham beat Chelsea as Felix sees red in debut


<p>João Félix has officially signed for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/chelsea-tv-schedule/">Chelsea</a> on loan. The Portugal international will, however, just be at Stamford Bridge for the remainder of the current campaign. Chelsea snatched up Felix in a $11.8 million move, while also covering his salary during his time with the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/premier-league-tv-schedule/">Premier League</a> club. This brings the total cost of the forward to just over $18 million for about five months on the pitch.</p>



<p>Upon making the switch to Chelsea, Felix spoke about the opportunity. “Chelsea is one of the great teams in the world and I hope to help the team reach their objectives,” <a href="https://www.chelseafc.com/en/news/article/joao-felix-recruited-on-loan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">said</a> Felix. “I am very, very happy to be here and very excited to play at Stamford Bridge.”</p>



<p>Blues boss Graham Potter also talked about the impact of having Felix on his team. “He is a quality player, and he will make a difference in the final third of the pitch. He is young, but has really good experience. The signing gives everybody a lift,’ Potter told reporters at a <a href="https://www.chelseafc.com/en/news/article/potter-reacts-to-the-signing-of-joao-felix" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">press conference</a> on Wednesday.</p>



<p>“He is a good age and he can play as a second striker between the lines and making a difference in the final third. We are looking forward to working with him.”</p>



<h2>Injuries force Chelsea to grab João Félix on loan</h2>



<p>Potter also acknowledged the fact that injuries in his squad may have propelled the move for Felix. “We have been aware of it for a while, these things do not happen quickly. Maybe the injuries have sharpened the focus a little bit. It is nice to get him here, get him training today and it is positive for us,” claimed the coach.</p>



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<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">João Félix to Chelsea, here we go! Full verbal agreement reached, loan move on €11m fee with 100% salary covered by Chelsea. 🚨🔵 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CFC</a><br><br>Before leaving, JF will extend contract with Atléti until 2027.<br><br>João will fly to London in the next hours to undergo medical tests and sign. <a href="https://t.co/F5aYKMgspa">pic.twitter.com/F5aYKMgspa</a></p>— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1612784167070179328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h5>Félix’s long-term future still with Atletico Madrid?</h5>



<p>Prior to signing for Chelsea, Felix extended his contract with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/atletico-madrid-tv-schedule/">Atletico Madrid</a>. The Spanish giants previously paid about $135 million for Felix back in 2019. However, the Portuguese player hasn’t exactly fulfilled his potential in Spain just yet. Atleti manager Diego Simeone has even benched the star throughout the campaign. In fact, Felix has started just 10 out of a possible of 21 matches in <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/la-liga-tv-schedule/">LaLiga</a> and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/champions-league-tv-schedule/">Champions League</a> play this season.</p>



<p>Nevertheless, the player has extended his contract, so he will return to Spain in June. Felix will be hoping to show Simeone and Atleti what they’re missing during his time in London. Rumors have also surfaced that Simeone could be out as Atleti manager this summer. </p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / ZUMA Wire</em></p>


Chelsea have signed João Félix in a mammoth five-month loan deal, but there is no option to buy, and he will return to Atletico Madrid.

Chelsea signs João Félix on short-term loan deal


<p>João Félix may not join Arsenal nor Manchester United, with Chelsea emerging late to land the Atletico Madrid forward. For weeks, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/arsenal-and-man-united-battle-for-joao-felix-20221229-WST-413718.html">Arsenal and Manchester United</a> looked like the top two suitors to acquire the Portuguese. However, a late swoop by Todd Boehly and Graham Potter may bring in the talent.</p>



<p>According to <em><a href="https://theathletic.com/4072188/2023/01/09/chelsea-transfer-news-joao-felix/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Athletic</a></em>, João Félix has a verbal agreement with Chelsea to join the Stamford Bridge side on loan for the remainder of the season. David Ornstein reports that Chelsea will pay Atletico Madrid around $11 million for the half-season loan. This figure is below what <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/atletico-madrid-reportedly-ready-to-hear-offers-for-joao-felix-20221104-WST-406885.html">Atletico originally wanted</a>. However, it appeared no Premier League club <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/16-million-loan-fee-for-joao-felix-may-be-stumbling-block-20230102-WST-414121.html">wanted to pay that much</a> for Félix.</p>



<p>Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the link between the two sides. </p>



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<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Chelsea are now in advanced talks to sign João Félix from Atlético Madrid on loan until June. Deal at final stages — no buy option clause discussed. 🚨🔵 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CFC</a><br><br>Fee will be more than €10m with salary covered and taxes. Talks accelerated after injuries and last game. <a href="https://t.co/68q0hnG9CR">pic.twitter.com/68q0hnG9CR</a></p>— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1612479152384315392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p>Romano added that Chelsea had an increased desire to land a top-tier forward after a number of factors. For one, Chelsea is out of form with goals drying up offensively. Most recently, Chelsea suffered a 4-0 loss against Manchester City in the FA Cup after losing 1-0 to City midweek in the League.</p>



<h5>Out of form Blues</h5>



<p>That loss to City compounded a terrible run of form in the league. Chelsea has one win and one draw over its last seven league games. Over that time, Chelsea scored just four goals while conceding nine. As a result, Chelsea sits 10th in the table with a trip to seventh-spot Fulham next on the schedule.</p>



<p>Moreover, Chelsea is out of both the Carabao Cup and FA Cup. Manchester City hammered Chelsea in both competitions at the Etihad. Therefore, the only thing Chelsea has going for it is the UEFA Champions League. Chelsea is in the round of 16, and faces a tie against Borussia Dortmund.</p>



<p>These struggles are the result of a number of factors. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/2022/05/30/todd-boehlys-consortium-complete-chelsea-takeover/">New ownership</a> is one distraction. Also, the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/2022/09/08/graham-potter-arrives-at-chelsea-to-finalize-move/">arrival of Graham Potter</a> makes things hard for players. Potter thrived at Brighton, and he is still implementing his tactics at Stamford Bridge. However, countless injuries bar any consistency on the team sheet.</p>



<h2>João Félix answers some Chelsea injury woes</h2>



<p>As Fabrizio Romano pointed out, Chelsea accelerated the talks with Atletico Madrid after a number of recent injuries. Right now, Chelsea could assemble a strong XI made solely out of players on its <a href="https://www.premierinjuries.com/teams/chelsea" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">injury report</a>. Edouard Mendy, Ben Chilwell, Reece James, Wesley Fofana, N’golo Kante and Ruben Loftus Cheek all have considerable injuries.</p>



<p>However, João Félix is there to fit in up top, where Chelsea is noticeably absent on names. <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSportsSoccer/status/1611095092894355474" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Christian Pulisic</a>, Raheem Sterling, Armando Broja and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang all have injuries. Therefore, João Félix can slide right in to play a role in Graham Potter’s team.</p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / Pressinphoto</em></p>


João Félix has a verbal agreement to join Chelsea on loan for the remainder of the season, knocking United and Arsenal out of his running.

Chelsea close to landing João Félix on loan


<p>João Félix is on the verge of a loan move to a Premier League club, but an associated fee may dissuade some clubs. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/arsenal-and-man-united-battle-for-joao-felix-20221229-WST-413718.html">Arsenal, Manchester United</a> and Chelsea are all among the teams expressing interest in the Portuguese international.</p>



<p>However, those clubs would have to pay just for the remaining five months of the campaign. <a href="https://theathletic.com/4046161/2023/01/02/joao-felix-transfer-loan-chelsea-arsenal-man-united/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Athletic is reporting</a> that João Félix has an associated loan fee of around $16 million loan fee. Moreover, that does not include a gross salary of roughly $6.5 million. In all, a suitor needs to spend around $22.5 million. Again, this is just for the remainder of the campaign.</p>



<p>Atletico Madrid is ready to lost Félix for this season with the club massively underperforming. Eleven points adrift of Barcelona and Real Madrid, Atletico sits in fourth. Also, the club finished fourth in its UEFA Champions League group. Consequently, it is out of European competition entirely. </p>



<p>The Athletic believes that figure can come down as the January transfer window wanes on. This is especially given for the three aforementioned clubs. Each have needs that differ from the technical ability João Félix brings.</p>



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<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">New contacts will take place this week for João Félix deal. Premier League clubs will have new direct talks with his agent Jorge Mendes 🔴🇵🇹 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/transfers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#transfers</a> <br><br>Chelsea are focused on Enzo deal, Manchester United and Arsenal already had talks with Mendes. PSG, not in the race as of now. <a href="https://t.co/x4CISwAC8m">pic.twitter.com/x4CISwAC8m</a></p>— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1609822301020733441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2>João Félix loan fee may spur some clubs away</h2>



<p>That technical ability showed spurts of promise at Atletico Madrid against top opposition. Last season, he put together good showings against Manchester United and Liverpool. He also did well against Manchester City, even if Atletico suffered elimination in the quarterfinals. </p>



<p>Then, Félix started four out of five games for Portugal at the 2022 World Cup. He scored against Ghana in the opener. Later, against Switzerland in the round of 16, he delivered two assists as <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/no-ronaldo-no-problem-as-portugal-thump-switzerland-6-1-20221206-WST-411481.html">Portugal won, 6-1</a>. </p>



<p>Part of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/atletico-madrid-reportedly-ready-to-hear-offers-for-joao-felix-20221104-WST-406885.html">Félix’s issue is consistency</a>. Few argue the ability and talent of the winger. It is why Atletico dropped its club-record fee, nearly <a href="https://www.transfermarkt.us/joao-felix/transfers/spieler/462250">$130 million</a>, to bring him over from Benfica as a teenager. Atletico expected the dominance he showed at Benfica. They are yet to see that in Spain. </p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / AgenciaLOF</em></p>


João Félix looks set for a half-season loan to the Premier League, but any fee for the coming months may be too much for some clubs.

$16 million loan fee for João Félix may be stumbling block


<p>Both <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/arsenal-tv-schedule/">Arsenal</a> and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/manchester-united-tv-schedule/">Manchester United</a> are interested in signing João Félix from <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/atletico-madrid-tv-schedule/">Atletico Madrid</a>. David Ornstein revealed the transfer news during <em>NBC Sports</em>‘ Premier League coverage on Wednesday. </p>



<p>However, <em>The Athletic</em> reporter added that United do not have a ton to spend this January.</p>



<p>“I don’t think there’s much money to spend at Manchester United,” proclaimed Ornstein. “I don’t want to disappoint fans, but it’s most likely going to have to be a loan deal.”</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">"They&apos;re aiming for a complete sale of Manchester United in the first quarter of 2023."<br><br>Premier League insider <a href="https://twitter.com/David_Ornstein?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@David_Ornstein</a> reveals that Man United are looking to bring in Joao Felix on loan due to a potential sale of the club.<br>📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/USA_Network?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USA_Network</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MyPLMorning?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MyPLMorning</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/S620PLjqVo">pic.twitter.com/S620PLjqVo</a></p>— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSportsSoccer/status/1608185006194671616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2022</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p>Ornstein also referenced new <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/liverpool-tv-schedule/">Liverpool</a> player Cody Gakpo as well. “Interestingly, [United] had an admiration of Cody Gakpo,” continued the reporter. “They almost signed him in the summer window. Erik ten Hag is a massive fan, but United are focused on a central striker for January and they see Gakpo primarily as a wide forward. And therefore, they are also looking at someone like João Félix, if they can do that loan deal.” </p>



<h2>Spanish club make $100 million player available</h2>



<p>Atleti are fielding offers for Félix after he fell down the pecking order at the club. Manager Diego Simeone has given the Portugal international just <a href="https://www.transfermarkt.us/joao-felix/leistungsdaten/spieler/462250" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">five LaLiga starts</a> during the current campaign. Ornstein, however, reminded United fans that the club is currently handcuffed because of the potential change of ownership.</p>



<p>“I think we need to remember the United sale here,” said Ornstein. “They’re aiming for a complete sale of Manchester United in the first quarter of 2023. And therefore, the Glazer family are not going to willing to sanction a massive outlay of cash on deals at this time of the year.”</p>



<h2>Arsenal joins United in João Félix quest</h2>



<p>Along with United, Arsenal are also interested in Félix as well. Although they also need Atleti’s demands to drop. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/ten-hag-frustrated-as-man-united-search-for-cheap-striker-solution-20221228-WST-413592.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Recent reports</a> suggest that a total package for Félix could cost a team around $23 million for just a six-month deal. The Spanish giants are looking for a huge loan fee as well as the player’s wages to be covered.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨Arsenal are keen to sign Joao Felix along with Mudryk<br><br>[<a href="https://twitter.com/David_Ornstein?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@David_Ornstein</a>] 🥇 <a href="https://t.co/ashvrOG0po">pic.twitter.com/ashvrOG0po</a></p>— Back Again W/Troopz Podcast (@backagain) <a href="https://twitter.com/backagain/status/1608193043693182977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2022</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p>“[Arsenal] are also keen to sign João Félix on loan from Atletico Madrid,” Ornstein stated. “Jorge Mendes, his agent, knows he needs to move João Félix because he’s out of favor at Atletico Madrid. And Arsenal are keen to do it, but the numbers would need to come down for that to happen. And I think they will. It would only be a six-month loan.”</p>



<p>United need reinforcements in their quest to get back into the top four of the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/premier-league-tv-schedule/">Premier League</a>. Arsenal, on the other hand, are currently top of the table and are looking to strengthen a thin squad.</p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / NurPhoto</em></p>


Arsenal and Manchester United are both interested in signing Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid, with a loan deal the most likely option.

Arsenal and Man United battle for João Félix


<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/atletico-madrid-tv-schedule/">Atletico Madrid</a> is reportedly ready to cash in on Joao Felix ahead of the January transfer period. <a href="https://cadenaser.com/nacional/2022/11/03/el-atletico-necesita-dinero-hay-cuatro-jugadores-en-el-mercado-y-quiere-fichar-cadena-ser/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cadena SER</a> claims Atletico Madrid transfer listed Felix. Felix previously arrived to the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/la-liga-tv-schedule/">LaLiga</a> club from Benfica in 2019. The deal was valued at well over $100 million. </p>



<p>While Felix has shown glimpses of what he can do on the pitch, he has not exactly been consistent with Atleti. In fact, the Portugal international’s best scoring campaign in Spain has been just eight goals. </p>



<p>Atleti manager Diego Simeone has even benched Felix in hopes that the move will motivate the youngster. The brave move has certainly received media attention in Spain.</p>



<p>Simeone has previously been asked about not playing Felix in more matches. “Do you think I’m not playing Joao to lose? No manager does that,” <a href="https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1691804/Man-Utd-transfer-news-Joao-Felix-opening-Atletico-Madrid-Diego-Simeone" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">claimed</a> the coach. “When he starts to play well again in training, he works, he recovers his goalscoring touch, which we need, he will play.”</p>



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<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">What does the future hold for Joao Felix? 🤔 <a href="https://t.co/nnvQI4I5Yc">pic.twitter.com/nnvQI4I5Yc</a></p>— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNFC/status/1587533242437099520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2022</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p>Felix has only made five LaLiga starts for the club’s 12 matches so far this season. He has even only played a full 90 minutes just once. The former prodigy finally netted his first league goal of the season in late October. </p>



<p>In European play, Simeone has trusted Felix to start a Champions League match just once since September. The forward did not score or assist during the group phase of the competition.</p>



<h2>European woes push Joao Felix out of Atletico Madrid</h2>



<p>Along with his struggles on the pitch, Atleti could also be willing to part with Felix because of their Champions League struggles. A <a href="https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/standings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fourth-place finish in the group</a> knocked the European mainstays out of intercontinental competition. Porto, Club Brugge and Bayer Leverkusen all surpassed Atletico’s five points.</p>



<p>Joao Felix’s potential suitors included <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/manchester-united-tv-schedule/">Manchester United</a>. The Old Trafford side wanted to bring in the Portuguese this past summer according to reports. Although the Red Devils did not make an official bid for the player, they did supposedly ask Atleti about Felix’s availability. The LaLiga outfit quickly rebuffed United’s requests.</p>



<p>United, and other top teams around Europe, could test Felix’s availability this coming January. The Portugal international is still just 22 and has plenty of time to improve his career. </p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / NurPhoto</em></p>


Atletico Madrid has reportedly made Joao Felix available for transfer following their disappointing UEFA Champions League campaign.

Atletico Madrid reportedly ready to hear offers for Joao Felix

<div id="attachment_362276" style="width: 1034px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><div><figure class="image"></figure></div><p id="caption-attachment-362276" class="wp-caption-text">Photo by Giuseppe Maffia/NurPhoto via Getty Images</p></div>
<p>There is no secret that Arsenal’s forwards currently have a scoring problem.</p>
<p>After all, the Gunners have managed just <a href="https://www.premierleague.com/clubs/1/Arsenal/results" target="_blank" rel="noopener">21 goals in 16 Premier League matches</a> so far this season. As of now, the club possesses two high-profile strikers up front.</p>
<p>However, Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang appear on the rumor mill as potential departures from the Emirtates. Lacazette’s current contract is ending in the summer, and Aubameyang was recently <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/2021/12/14/aubameyang-stripped-of-arsenal-captaincy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stripped of his captaincy</a> and is supposedly open to a move away from the Emirates.</p>
<p>Whether Arsenal make a move for a new striker in January or the summer, reinforcements in this position is clearly a top priority. Listed below are five potential options for manager Mikel Arteta and the Gunners.</p>
<h3>Arsenal’s potential forwards via the transfer market</h3>
<h5>Dusan Vlahovic</h5>
<p>Undoubtedly, Arsenal’s number one choice for a center forward in either January or the summer is Dusan Vlahovic.</p>
<p>The problem for the Gunners is that Vlahovic is every team’s top pick for a new striker. Media outlets link the current Fiorentina forward to Manchester City, Tottenham, Barcelona and pretty much any team in need of a young, promising forward. Competition, as well as the player’s preference, could prevent Arsenal from getting their man.</p>
<p>We have seen that this new regime can spend money, but clubs like Manchester City, Real Madrid, Barcelona, and PSG are tough to beat when they get involved in transfers.</p>
<p>The Serbia international has been a goal machine over the last calendar year. Since December 15th, 2020, Vlahovic has scored an astounding <a href="https://www.transfermarkt.us/du-scaron-an-vlahovic/leistungsdatendetails/spieler/357498" target="_blank" rel="noopener">37 goals in just 46 total matches</a> for Fiorentina. The combination of his goal record and the fact that he’s just 21 makes for plenty of gossip surrounding his future. Vlahovic will almost certainly depart Florence at some point in 2022.</p>
<p>However, Arsenal need some luck to land the striker ahead of other clubs.</p>
<h5>Jonathan David</h5>
<div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" class="alignleft wp-image-362281 size-medium" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/WST_20211214_WST_362250_Jonathan-David-300x342.webp&amp;width=300&amp;height=342" alt="" width="300" height="342" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/12/Jonathan-David-300x342.png 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/12/Jonathan-David-150x171.png 150w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/12/Jonathan-David.png 348w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px"></figure></div>
<p>If Vlahovic is Arsenal’s top target, Jonathan David could very well be their plan B. The Lille forward is currently <a href="https://supersport.com/football/france/top-scorers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">leading Ligue 1 with 11 goals</a> during the current campaign. Also just 21, David has managed to score 24 French league goals in just 55 matches since his arrival from Gent in 2020.</p>
<p>Able to play at the center forward position or as a second striker, the Canada international is a very dynamic player. Along with scoring goals, he also passes well and even helps out in defense with pressures that potentially lead to turnovers. Certainly, Arteta and the Arsenal will be aware of David’s ability outside of scoring goals.</p>
<p>As with everyone else on this list, the Gunners will have competition in their striker search. Liverpool, PSG, and West Ham share interest in David. Previously, the Canadian spoke of his dreams Although David as previously stated that he grew up dreaming of a move to Arsenal or Barcelona. If the Gunners miss out on Vlahovic, David could be a decent, and cheaper, alternative with a market value of about <a href="https://www.transfermarkt.us/jonathan-david/profil/spieler/533738" target="_blank" rel="noopener">$40 million</a>.</p>
<h5>Dominic Calvert-Lewin</h5>
<p>A move from one Premier League side to another is a polarizing option for Arteta and company.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1534782/arsenal-news-paul-merson-dominic-calvert-lewin-everton-premier-league" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arsenal fans appear to be split</a> on the possibility of Calvert-Lewin being a Aubameyang or Lacazette replacement. Those against the move point out Calvert-Lewin’s failure to be a true ‘elite’ goal-scorer. For instance, the England international failed to score more than 16 league goals in a season. Moreover, he is not quite as technically gifted as other potential options.</p>
<p>Nevertheless, Calvert-Lewin is still just 24. He is far removed from the player in danger of earning more yellow cards than scoring goals. The current Everton forward managed to score 19 Premier League goals in his last 36 appearances.</p>
<p>Calvert-Lewin would give the Gunners a formidable presence inside the box with his aerial ability and poacher mentality. However, the 6’2 target man may not be a good fit with Arteta’s preferred playing style. Arsenal have a more active, fluid style going forward. Currently, Arsenal ranks 17th in crosses into the box so far this season in the Premier League.</p>
<h5><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-362277 size-medium alignright" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/WST_20211214_WST_362250_Alexander-Isak-1-300x348.webp&amp;width=300&amp;height=348" alt="" width="300" height="348" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/12/Alexander-Isak-1-300x348.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/12/Alexander-Isak-1-600x695.jpg 600w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/12/Alexander-Isak-1-150x174.jpg 150w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/12/Alexander-Isak-1-768x890.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/12/Alexander-Isak-1.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px"></figure></div></h5>
<h5>Alexander Isak</h5>
<p>Alexander Isak burst on to the scene as the successor to Zlatan Ibrahimovic in Sweden. However, some critics peggded him as a flop as he failed to impress at Borussia Dortmund.</p>
<p>Even then, his time at Real Sociedad proved to be a revelation for the now-22-year-old striker. Since the start of the 2020/21 season, Isak scored 20 goals in 48 LaLiga fixtures. Not a world-beater output, but it shows significant potential. Although he is scoring below expected this season, Isak possesses a rare combination of size, 6’4, and pace. He has just three league goals in 17 games this season for Real Sociedad.</p>
<p>In spite of his lackluster start to the current campaign, Arteta and the Arsenal front office tend to see out players for their potential. Potential is something ever-present in Isak. As is the case with Dominic Calvert-Lewin, questions of a potential fit with Arsenal could be raised. Yet, the 22-year-old striker is certainly talented, and his addition would be a welcome one among Arsenal’s forwards.</p>
<p>The Gunners could face competition from Liverpool and Spurs, among others, in approaching Isak in 2022.</p>
<h5><span style="font-size: 16px;">Joao Felix</span></h5>
<div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-362278 size-medium alignleft" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/WST_20211214_WST_362250_Joao-Felix-300x400.webp&amp;width=300&amp;height=400" alt="" width="300" height="400" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/12/Joao-Felix-300x400.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/12/Joao-Felix-150x200.jpg 150w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/12/Joao-Felix.jpg 512w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px"></figure></div>
<p>Of all the players to possibly join Arsenal’s forwards, Joao Felix seems the most like a wild card.</p>
<p>Undeniably, Felix is one of the most-talented young players in all of Europe. Gifted with footwork and intelligence with passing, his fit with Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid seems confusing. Simeone is one that does not seek out creativity, more so out-and-out defense into attack.</p>
<p>Statistically speaking, Felix never really racked up the goals and assists many predicted during his time in Spain. Regardless, Felix is not a typical center forward. In fact, he can mold into different attacking positions. That could be up front alone or as a second striker or occupying the flanks. We all know how much Arteta likes versatile players to fit the passing style of play.</p>
<p>The only issue with a potential deal for Felix would be competition. Much like Vlahovic, Felix would be wanted by most of the big clubs around Europe. In fact, Manchester City, Manchester United, Barcelona, and Liverpool all have interest in signing the 22-year-old. Felix’s mammoth player wages potentially would not be much of an issue assuming the Gunners move on from Aubameyang.</p>
<p>A lot would have to happen for Arsenal to land Felix, but he should be near the top of Arteta’s wish list for Arsenal’s forwards.</p>


Arsenal's forwards this season have been underwhelming. Potential exits for Lacazette and Aubameyang open the doors for the transfer market.

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