Al-Hilal are reportedly making their move to bring in a top-quality forward and Joao Felix is seemingly the next big target on the agenda for the Middle Eastern side.
According to a Tweet from Fabrizio Romano, Al-Hilal approached Atletico Madrid about the possibility of taking Felix on loan but the offer for the forward was rejected.
The priority for the Spanish side remains to sell the forward despite the loan offer that was made by Jorge Jesus’ Saudi side.
The Portuguese forward spent last season on loan at Chelsea, he was brought in during the January transfer window. The forward had flashes of brilliance for the West London side but ultimately struggled to be consistent under first Graham Potter and then Frank Lampard.
Al-Hilal have been desperate for a world-class striker to make the move to the Saudi Pro League and they hope Felix can be the difference maker ahead of the new season.
Loan is a priority
According to Romano’s tweet, Al-Hilal are hoping to sign the forward on loan and will insist and keep pushing on a loan for the former Benfica man.
Romano, however, also insists that the forward still dreams of a move to Barcelona to play under former iconic midfielder Xavi Hernandez, although a move seems unlikely.
Due to the Spanish side’s poor finances this summer, as they bid to wrestle with financial fair play restrictions, a move to one of Atleti’s biggest rivals remains unlikely.
So, the only option that is on the table as things stand is Jorge Jesus’s Saudi side. Neymar is seemingly another option for the Saudi side according to FootMercato, although it is unclear how much PSG would demand for the forward.
The move could be a good one for both sides, with Felix looking to regain his confidence and consistency, so a move to the Saudi side where he will be the main man may be the exact thing he needs to kick start his career, once again.