Manchester United have been ‘put off’ by Atletico Madrid’s £18.3m asking price for Joao Felix.
The Red Devils are keen on signing a striker following the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo’s exit has saved the club around £16m in wages but the Glazers are unwilling to finance a big outlay as they are currently trying to sell the club.
Felix is desperate to leave the club after falling out with Diego Simeone and the club have accepted they have to offload the Portuguese star, who joined the club in a £130m deal just three years ago.
But Atletico won’t leave Felix go on the cheap and they’re seeking £18.3m in order to let him leave on loan for the remainder of the season.
The package covers Felix’s wages, as well as a down payment for the period of the loan deal.
Despite showing interest in Felix, United feel this price is excessive for a player that would provide competition for Anthony Martial and would not be a guaranteed starter.
As it stands, the club are not willing to pull the trigger on a deal and it would require Atletico to halve their asking price for United to change their minds.
Arsenal have a similar stance on signing Felix, though the Gunners arguably have more to gain given Gabriel Jesus is out for three months and Mikel Arteta’s side are aiming for the title.
Manchester City and Liverpool have both been contacted about Felix’s availability but they’re not interested in signing the former Benfica ace.
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