Manchester City to loan Joao Felix back to Benfica?

Manchester City have reportedly provided Benfica with an incentive to allow Joao Felix to move to the Etihad Stadium.

Felix's 19 goals in all competitions this season have resulted in widespread interest in his signature, including from City, who are allegedly prepared to meet the youngster's release clause.

Manchester United and Atletico Madrid are also considered to be contenders for the 19-year-old, although it appears that City are attempting to give themselves an edge in negotiations.

According to The Mirror, City have informed Benfica that they would be happy to allow Felix to spend another 12 months at his current club.

The report claims that Pep Guardiola still intends to use Sergio Aguero and Gabriel Jesus as his preferred attacking options during the next campaign.