It was heartbreaking for all Manchester United fans just after Christmas when long-term attacking target Cody Gakpo sealed a transfer to arch-rivals Liverpool.
Reports in recent weeks linking the Dutch international with a move to Old Trafford had mounted and the hope was that the deal would be done quickly.
But in a sudden twist, the Merseyside club went ahead of United and sealed a super-quick deal for the PSV Eindhoven attacker, news of which broke just an hour before confirmation came through.
Heartbreak for United
Erik ten Hag and Gakpo shared the same agency and United had even spoken to the striker over the summer, before finally signing Antony.
The former Ajax boss had publicly revealed that his team lacked firepower up front, making a Gakpo deal even more likely.
But now that the 23-year-old is out of their league, the Red Devils must figure out the best way to solve their goal crisis.
The remaining options include the likes of Joao Felix, Goncalo Ramos, Rafael Leao and Memphis Depay. But getting the likes of Ramos and Leao will prove to be a bridge too far considering how stretched finances are at the club.
While Depay would prove to be an option in the short term, Félix would represent a bright option in the future and Atlético Madrid are open to negotiating a loan deal in January.
Chelsea have joined the race for Joao Félix while Liverpool are about to sign Cody Gakpo.
Erik ten Hag will certainly be furious as he obviously wanted Gakpo, but he could miss out due to Man Utd being slow. Embarrassing!
— UtdFaithfuls (@UtdFaithfuls) December 26, 2022
Félix’s relationship with Atlético manager Diego Simeone has broken down completely and with the disgruntled striker no longer happy in Madrid, the club have revealed they are open to the star leaving.
As reported by The Peoples Person, the Red Devils and Arsenal are battling it out for the Portugal international and the Gunners are considered to be leading the chase at the moment.
Chelsea could beat United and Arsenal
However, according to The Daily Telegraph, “Chelsea are seeking a deal for Atlético Madrid Joao Félix on an initial loan to bolster Graham Potter’s attack for the second half of the season.”
Potter is targeting a defender and goalscoring winger in January and Felix fits the bill.
“According to Spanish sources, Atlético are prepared for an offer from Chelsea as they look to climb back up to the Champions League places,” the report added.
Chelsea are considering a transfer with an option or obligation to buy in the summer, depending on the conditions that Atlético wants for the departure of Félix.”
Recent comments by journalists have indicated that Ten Hag wants a complete striker in the mold of a traditional number 9 and, if that is true, Felix might be better served elsewhere.
United Matchday Magazine – Stay on top of everything in the red. Still itching for more United content? Get everything you need right here. For just £1.25 per issue / £3.75 per month, you’ll receive unique United information, delivered directly to your inbox, before every game and throughout the month.
Get exclusive preparation for every game, plus team news, tactics and history. Not only that – United Matchday is packed with articles, news, transfer news, riddles, nostalgia and humor. Impress your friends and stay on top of everything in red!
