According to a recent report by the Record (via the Metro), Manchester United have begun discussions over a potential £89m move for Benfica forward Joao Felix later this summer. The same source has mentioned that the Red Devils are willing to match the Portuguese starlet’s release clause so that they can bring him to Old Trafford ahead of the new campaign.
Felix’s Inspirational Rise In Portuguese Football
Felix has previously played for clubs such as Dragon Force and FC Porto before finally settling down at Benfica. He came through the Portuguese club’s youth system before finally breaking out as a first-team starter at the beginning of this campaign.
The Liga NOS striker has been in sparkling form for Benfica after putting in numerous goal-scoring displays for them during this campaign. Felix has featured in 43 matches for the Portuguese giants this term, scoring 20 goals while grabbing 11 assists in all competitions.
The 19-year-old is also an integral member of the Portuguese Under-21 side having made ten appearances while registering four goals for them thus far. His remarkable goal-scoring contributions have helped Benfica win the Liga NOS title this season, so he already knows what it takes to taste success at the highest level.
What Makes Felix Such A Special Prospect?
The Portuguese wonderkid is incredibly versatile as he can play in multiple positions across the frontline. He primarily operates as a secondary striker but is also capable of impacting the game from the number 10 position or down the left wing. The Viseu born prospect can dribble with the ball at high speed without losing possession. He is a prolific goal-getter inside the opposition penalty area and is also a decent playmaker in the final third.
Should The Red Devils Pay £89m For Felix?
The acquisition of a player of Felix’s massive potential will undoubtedly improve Old Gunnar Solskjaer’s attacking options at the Theatre of Dreams. The Red Devils could benefit from recruiting the highly-rated Portuguese starlet as he has the makings of a world-class forward. However, the jury is still out on whether Felix will be able to cope with the physical demands of Premier League football.
Man United already have the likes of Anthony Martial, Romelu Lukaku and Marcus Rashford battling for a starting berth in Solskjaer’s first-team so Felix won’t be guaranteed regular first-team opportunities at Old Trafford next season. Thus, it makes no sense for the Mancunian outfit to pay a whopping £89m for a player who might not even feature for them regularly on the pitch. Solskjaer would be better of spending that kind of money on strengthening some of the other areas of his squad.
