The summer transfer window is here and Newcastle United is rumored to be interested in signing Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid. The 21-year-old forward was considered one of the hottest prospects in European football when he signed for Atletico in 2019, and he has had an impressive debut season in La Liga. But is he the right fit for Steve Bruce’s Newcastle United?
First, let’s understand who Joao Felix is and what he brings to the table. Felix is a Portuguese forward who started his professional career at Benfica, where he scored 20 goals in 43 appearances in his only senior season. This caught the attention of Atletico Madrid, who paid a whopping €126 million to sign him in 2019, making him the fifth most expensive player in history at the time.
Felix has since become a regular starter for Atletico Madrid and has scored 15 goals in 67 appearances in all competitions. He is a versatile forward who can play as a central striker or behind the striker in an attacking midfield role. He is technically gifted, has good vision and passing ability, and is a skilled dribbler who can take on defenders with ease. He is also a hard worker off the ball and is known for his defensive contributions as well.
So, is Joao Felix the right fit for Newcastle United? On the one hand, he would be a massive addition to the Magpies’ squad. Newcastle has struggled for goals this season, with only Callum Wilson hitting double digits in the Premier League. Adding a creative forward like Felix could help Newcastle unlock defences and improve their attack next season.
Furthermore, Newcastle’s current style of play could suit Felix well. Steve Bruce’s side is known for their organized defence and counter-attacking approach, and Felix could excel in such a system. He is quick, agile, and has the skills to take on defenders on the break. Newcastle’s current attacking midfielder, Miguel Almiron, has shown glimpses of quality this season but has struggled to consistently provide goals and assists. Felix could provide the creative spark that Newcastle’s attack needs.
On the other hand, there are some factors that suggest that Felix might not be the best fit for Newcastle United. Firstly, his transfer fee would be astronomical. Atletico Madrid paid €126 million to sign him, and his value has only increased since then. Newcastle’s current owner, Mike Ashley, is not known for his willingness to spend big on players, and it remains to be seen whether the club will be willing to pay a hefty transfer fee for Felix.
Secondly, Felix’s style of play might not suit the physicality of the Premier League. While Felix is a talented player, he is not known for his physicality or aerial ability. The Premier League is a physical league, and attackers have to be able to cope with the physical challenges posed by defenders. Although Felix has held his own in La Liga, it remains to be seen whether he can adapt to the physical demands of the Premier League.
Finally, there are questions about how Felix would fit into Newcastle’s system. While he could excel in a counter-attacking system, Newcastle’s attack is often bogged down by the lack of creativity and movement off the ball. It remains to be seen whether Felix can adapt to a system that does not utilize his strengths to their fullest potential.
In conclusion, Joao Felix would be a massive signing for Newcastle United, and his creative spark could transform the Magpies’ attack next season. However, his transfer fee and his ability to adapt to the physicality and demands of the Premier League are legitimate concerns. Steve Bruce and his recruitment team will have to carefully evaluate whether Felix is the right fit for the club before deciding to launch a bid for the Portuguese forward.