Barcelona forward Memphis Depay is being targeted by Atletico Madrid as a replacement for Joao Felix, according to Fabrizio Romano.

What's the word?

Felix, who joined Atletico for around £113m in 2019, has signed for Chelsea on a six-month loan and Atletico are targeting a replacement for the attacker.

One option they are reportedly exploring is Depay, and the Netherlands international is out of contract at the end of the season.

The 28-year-old has made just two appearances in La Liga this term, scoring once, and if he is offered an attractive deal by Diego Simeone, he could be tempted to move to the capital.

Speaking on the Here We Go Podcast, Romano revealed their interest in Depay and hinted that he could move.

He said: "The priority name is Memphis Depay. We can confirm that Atletico Madrid will go on Depay as the priority target.

"It's not that easy because we know the financial situation of Barcelona, and so to give the green light, Barca want to make sure these are good conditions for them.

"Also, Memphis is out of contract in the summer, so he wants an important contract, otherwise, he can go on a free in June and pick his favourite proposal."

A dynamic addition

Depay's versatility means he can play anywhere across the attacking line, and could even partner Antoine Griezmann or Alvaro Morata upfront for Atletico.

Given his lack of game time this season, Barcelona will not need to replace the Dutchman given that they already have plenty of attacking depth, and could therefore be willing to accept a suitable January deal to boost their finances.

Depay scored 76 times in 178 games for Olympique Lyonnais in France before making the move to La Liga, and if he is given regular game time under Simeone, he could become a valuable asset whilst Felix is away, in their chase for a top-four spot.