Newcastle United Face Stiff Competition For This Atletico Madrid Ace: What Will He Add To Howe’s Side?

In a recent print edition, ABC stated that Newcastle United could face stiff competition for Atletico Madrid ace Joao Felix. It has been mentioned that the Magpies will have to rival Manchester United and Aston Villa in the race to land the Portuguese sensation this summer.

Felix’s Unimpressive Loan Spell In West London

Felix experienced an underwhelming loan spell at Chelsea in the previous campaign as he struggled to be consistent for them in front of the opposition goal. The 23-year-old scored just four goals in 20 matches for the Blues last season across various competitions.

Still, the Portugal international deserves some credit for averaging 2.9 shots and 1.4 dribbles per 90 minutes in Premier League football. He distributed the ball relatively well after completing 80.9% of his attempted passes in the English first division (stats via whoscored).

Felix’s current deal at his parent club Atletico Madrid will run out in 2027. Thus, Newcastle will have to pay a hefty fee if they want to bring him to Tyneside this summer.

Joao Felix
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MAY 25: Joao Felix of Chelsea celebrates after scoring the team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Chelsea FC at Old Trafford on May 25, 2023 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

What Will Felix Add To Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe’s Team?

Felix is a technically gifted footballer who can create a yard of space for himself to get a few strikes in at goal. He can be a decent finisher in the final third when he is playing at the top of his game on the field.

The Portuguese talent can even make a few dangerous runs with the ball in the opposition half. Felix is primarily a striker but can also fill in as a left-sided wide player if asked to do so. However, he needs to find a way to create more chances for his teammates up top.

Felix will undoubtedly add more firepower to Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe’s frontline. He might even help the Magpies challenge across all competitions in the coming years.

Felix has already got some valuable UEFA Champions League experience under his belt and could be a real asset for the Magpies in European football next season. However, he is yet to prove his worth in the Premier League. Therefore, Howe will have to be patient with Felix’s progress if he wants to unlock the best out of him at St. James’ Park.