Atletico got knocked out of the Champions League and that will be a huge setback for their coffers because they did not expect to get knocked out in the group stage. According to 'Cadena SER', that could make the club sell some of their stars in January. Joao Felix, who is not in his best form, is reportedly on the way out and Man Utd would reportedly be delighted to buy him.
Joao Felix could have left last summer for 100 million euros. Atletico said no to Bayern's big offer because they thought that this season was going to be a great one for him. Nothing further from the truth because he is hardly starting.
He did not leave the Metropolitano then, but he could do so in January. Programme 'Carrusel Deportivo' on 'Cadena SER', recently said that Atletico are doing calculations. Having been knocked out of the Champions League is a big blow because the club were counting on UEFA prize money and ticket money for more games. Nobody contemplated the possibility of being knocked out of the Champions League at the group stage.
Getting knocked out of Europe could have its effects on the market. In order to sign, Atletico would have to reduce their wage bill and that means by making sales. Joao Felix could be one of the men sacrificed because his salary is one of the highest in the squad.
'The Sun' have Man Utd in the list of suitors for Joao Felix. Man Utd see themselves with more chance than a few months ago because of Atletico's Champions League elimination.
Atletico, that said, are not thinking of giving him away for nothing. They paid Benfica 120 million euros to sign him and they are trying to get a good amount for him.
In the past, Man Utd offered 124 million euros for the striker. That offer, 'The Sun' says, will not be repeated. It will be much lower if it ends up happening.