Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has played down reports that there is a divide between himself and Joao Felix and has insisted that his team needs the Portuguese forward.
Felix has made 18 appearances for Atleti so far this season but most of those have been from off the bench. The 23-year-old is thought to be unhappy with this lack of game time and is said to be looking at options away from the Spanish capital.
Manchester United are favourites with the bookmakers to sign Felix and are in need of a new striker. Cristiano Ronaldo's departure in November has created a hole in the squad that needs filling.
ALSO READ: Fernandes could play key role in Felix pursuit
The Portuguese international's current deal is set to expire in 2026 and therefore a loan move in the January transfer window could be the most likely option for the Reds should they wish to sign the Atleti man. However, in a press conference on Wednesday, Simeone has claimed that he still sees Felix as important to his team.
He said: "We have a good working relationship. Since I have been at the club I have never left, beyond some differences that exist between people, and we can’t agree on everything, and I have looked for what is best for the club until the last day."
"Everyone is giving their maximum." Simeone added: "What matters to me is the team and he is important to the team.
"If he gives us what we saw in the World Cup, he will be very important. He has the condition and the talent and the team need his qualities."
Felix enjoyed a positive World Cup with Portugal scoring once against Ghana in the opening group stage match and later on grabbing two assists against Switzerland. The winter transfer window opens on New Year's Day.
READ NEXT:
