Manchester United are one of the elite clubs that have been linked with a move for Joao Felix in 2023 and now a new update has emerged on the club’s pursuit of the player ahead of the January transfer window.

What’s the latest?

Italian journalist and transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Man United are set for “new talks” in their efforts to secure the Atletico Madrid and Portugal forward’s signature.

Romano wrote in his column for CaughtOffside:

“Both Arsenal and Manchester United have had discussions with Jorge Mendes about Joao Felix, also Chelsea and Aston Villa have been approached.”

“They are informed on conditions of the deal, but still waiting to understand final decision by Atletico Madrid on potential loan as they always asked for €100m (£87m) fee. I’m told this week there will be new talks to find a way for Joao Felix.”

Imagine him & Rashford

There is no doubt that Erik ten Hag will be keen to strengthen his forward line following the shock departure of Cristiano Ronaldo earlier this month and Edison Cavani leaving in the summer.

Indeed, the top priority is likely to be a pure number nine but the signing of Felix could offer the Red Devils boss versatility in the final third.

The Atletico Madrid ace has a wealth of experience in many positions in the final third as a second striker, centre forward, and left and right winger, offering Ten Hag a player who can add depth to various roles.

Felix - who was hailed an “immense talent” by Yannick Carrasco - has scored four goals and delivered three assists this season in all competitions with a goal contribution every 116 minutes.

Not only that, the 23-year-old ranks in the top 10% of his positional peers over the top five European leagues for assists and interceptions, as well as ranking in the top 20% for non-penalty goals, shot-creating actions, progressive passes and dribbles completed.

Ten Hag could form a formidable attacking threat between Felix and Marcus Rashford, as the boyhood Man United star has been in fine form this season already - scoring 10 goals and delivering four assists over 21 appearances so far.

Combining Rashford’s goal-scoring form with Felix’s versatility and talent for moving the ball into dangerous positions could be deadly for opponents over the second half of the season.

With that being said, although Felix is not the traditional striker many will expect Man United to sign in the new year, he could improve the threat in front of goal with both goal contributions and delivering attacking opportunities.