Atletico Madrid line up Joao Felix replacement in Memphis Depay

Following the news of Joao Felix’s imminent departure, Atletico Madrid are looking to bring in Barcelona’s Memphis Depay on loan.

Multiple sources are reporting that Depay is one of numerous options on Atletico’s shortlist.  Additionally, per Manu Carreno of Cadena SER, the Spanish giants are already in preliminary talks with Barca over a deal. It is likely that this will be a temporary move until the end of the season, which will cover Felix’s absence.

Depay has struggled for a regular place in the Barcelona side since the arrival of Xavi. The Dutchman has made just two La Liga appearances this season, although has scored once.

He sits behind a number of attacking options in the pecking order at Camp Nou. For instance, Xavi prefers the likes of Ansu Fati, Ousmane Dembele, and Ferran Torres on the wings. Then, at striker, Depay is unlikely to usurp marquee summer signing Robert Lewandowski.

This is likely frustrating for Memphis, as he was Barcelona’s top scorer last season. The forward would like a fresh challenge as a result. Previously, some thought that a move to the Premier League was possible – so news of Atletico Madrid in talks with Memphis Depay may disappoint some clubs.

Chelsea, Man United may lose Memphis Depay race to Atletico Madrid

In November, reports claimed that Chelsea were pondering a move for the Dutch attacker. A proven goal scorer has been a need at Chelsea for a while now, with some speculating that Depay could fill that gap.

However, their loan move for Joao Felix likely puts them out of this race.

Elsewhere, Depay’s former club, Man United, have apparently had him on their radar, too. According to Metro, Memphis is keen on going back to Old Trafford. United also desperately need depth in the striker department.

But currently, the Red Devils are closing on a different deal. Instead of Depay, United appear primed to sign his compatriot, Wout Weghorst, on loan.

Spanish outlet Sport also mentioned that Tottenham could come in for Memphis. This would only be if he was available for free, though.

Paying for the Dutch star may be something which teams look to avoid doing. Depay’s deal with Barcelona expires this summer. Therefore, clubs can wait six months, then sign him as a free agent.

In the case of Atletico Madrid, a move for Memphis Depay is a little more urgent after letting Joao Felix leave.

Joao Felix finalising loan move to Chelsea

Atletico’s record signing, Joao Felix, is completing a loan move to Chelsea for the rest of this season. Per Fabrizio Romano, the Blues will pay Atleti €11 million for the forward’s services. They will also cover the entirety of his wages for the loan spell.

But there is a curious twist: Felix is also signing a contract extension with Madrid before leaving for Chelsea. Given that a contributing factor to the Portugal star exiting Atletico is his relationship with Diego Simeone, does this suggest that the Argentine manager is leaving?

Reports have claimed that Simeone will walk away from Wanda Metropolitano this summer. By agreeing to a new deal, Felix may have added further fuel to those rumours.

For now, though, Joao Felix is preparing for a spell in the Premier League. Once he passes a medical, the forward will look to help Chelsea improve on their current tenth place in the league.  

Featured image credit: Getty