Out-Of-Favour Barcelona Forward Targeted As Atletico’s Felix Replacement; Man United, Newcastle Also Keen

Atletico Madrid has chosen FC Barcelona forward, Memphis Depay as a replacement after loaning Joao Felix to Chelsea and is getting ready to start negotiations with the Dutch forward.

After agreeing to a contract to send Felix to Chelsea until the end of the season, Atleti is looking for a new attacking player. Depay might be that guy, says transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.

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The Dutch striker has apparently been looking for a transfer away from the Camp Nou for some time, even though he has stated his wish to move on in the summer. However, it seems like he might be persuaded by the appropriate offer, and Atleti do offer some prestige in addition to playing in Europe.

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Depay has had a rocky time at Barcelona. The Dutch striker has a respectable 14 goals in 42 games, but he hasn’t played regularly for the squad in about a year. It might be the right time to relocate now that he is 29 years old and that his contract expires in the summer.

In a news conference held prior to Barca’s Copa del Rey match against Intercity, manager Xavi insisted that he was pleased with Depay and supported the striker in earning some playing time.

“I don’t want anyone to leave,” Xavi said. “I’m delighted with the squad. It seems there won’t be a market for us. I’m happy with Depay. His attitude is good and he will be important for us. He has the ability to make a difference. He’ll have minutes. Like all of them.”

The Spanish Super Cup match between Barcelona and Real Betis will feature the Dutch striker. But it’s still unclear how much longer he’ll wear a Barca jersey.

Premier League rivals Newcastle United and Man United are also keen to sign the Barcelona forward.