According to a recent report by Record, Manchester City are closing in on Benfica forward Joao Felix after opening talks with the forward’s parents over a potential deal during the summer transfer window. The same source has revealed that Man City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain was present during Felix’s hattrick against Eintracht Frankfurt in the UEFA Europa League earlier this season before beginning a ‘charm offensive’ to bring the Liga NOS talent to the Etihad Stadium in this post-season.
However, Record has also stated that the Citizens will face stiff competition from a whole host of clubs which include Liverpool, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain in pursuit of the Portuguese starlet this summer.
The Remarkable Rise Of Joao Felix
The 19-year-old started his playing career in Portugal and represented clubs such as Dragon Force and FC Porto before sealing a move to the Estádio Sport Lisboa e Benfica in the summer of 2015. Felix managed to improve his game while working his way up the Portuguese club’s youth ranks. He finally broke into Bruno Lage’s senior team earlier this season and has put in a string of impressive displays in the Liga NOS since the turn of the year.
Felix has featured in a total of 40 matches for Benfica this term, scoring 18 goals while grabbing 11 assists across all competitions. He has also represented his nation at various youth levels but is yet to make an appearance for the Portuguese national side thus far.
What Makes The Portuguese Forward Such A Special Talent?
The Portuguese sensation is incredibly versatile as he can operate in multiple roles across the frontline. He primarily features as a secondary striker but is also capable of influencing the game from the number 10 position or down the left flank. The Viseu born prospect has blistering pace in his locker which helps him complete dribbles at top speed in the opposition half. He has also added lots of goals and assists to his game which is a remarkable feat for a player of his tender age.
Felix’s Acquisition: Good Move For Guardiola?
The potential addition of a player of Felix’s potential will undoubtedly improve Pep Guardiola’s attacking options at the Mancunian club. The Citizens could benefit from landing the highly sought after Portuguese starlet as Guardiola has what it takes to make the most out of Felix’s talents. However, he is still quite raw so the Premier League outfit would need to be patient with him if they are to see the player gradually develop himself into a world-class forward in the coming years.
However, Man City already have the likes of Leroy Sane, Gabriel Jesus, Sergio Aguero and Raheem Sterling vying for a place in Guardiola’s starting XI so it would be quite difficult for Felix to secure regular first-team opportunities at the Etihad Stadium. All in all, it could prove to be a shrewd move for the Citizens if they can convince the Portuguese wonderkid to make a switch to England ahead of the new season.
