Atletico Madrid 'pricing Joao Felix out of loan move'

Atletico Madrid are reportedly pricing Joao Felix out of a loan move in the January transfer window.

Arsenal and Manchester United have been linked with a move for the 23-year-old, however the astronomical figure that the Spanish club are requesting to sanction a deal has deterred both clubs from pursuing the player.

The Times reports that Diego Simeone's side are seeking £18.3m to allow the Portugal international to leave, with interested clubs having to stump up a £13m loan fee and £5m in wages.

Arsenal are looking for firepower to maintain their title charge with Gabriel Jesus expected to be out for three months, whilst the Red Devils are seeking a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, after his contract was terminated by mutual consent before the World Cup.

Erik ten Hag is reportedly restricted to short-term options in January, after spending £225m in the summer transfer window, and would therefore need the figure to be significantly reduced, whilst Mikel Arteta's side are also not willing to meet that fee.

The Portuguese attacker has featured 13 times in La Liga so far this season, scoring four and assisting three goals.