**Aston Villa Pursue Permanent Deal for Atletico’s Joao Felix**

Aston Villa are maintaining their interest in Atletico Madrid’s Joao Felix, with the club willing to negotiate a permanent deal for the Portuguese forward. Felix’s future remains uncertain after spending last season on loan at Barcelona, where he was keen to secure a permanent move to the Nou Camp. However, Barcelona’s financial struggles have hindered their ability to come up with an acceptable package for Felix, prompting Villa to explore the possibility of a deal.

Felix, who previously spent half a season on loan at Chelsea, is set to return to Atletico for pre-season training on July 26 after representing Portugal at Euro 2024. Atletico want his future sorted before then, after the player previously fell out with manager Diego Simeone and the club’s fanbase, and are seeking a permanent exit rather than another temporary move.

**Villa Boss Unai Emery Keen to Strengthen Squad**

Villa boss Unai Emery is eager to add further reinforcements to his side, which finished 11th in the Premier League last season. The Spanish manager has identified Felix as a key target, and is willing to negotiate a deal with Atletico to bring the 24-year-old to Villa Park.

Atletico have placed a £50m valuation on Felix, who they signed from Benfica for £114m five years ago. Villa are weighing up whether to submit a formal offer for the forward, who was once regarded as Europe’s brightest young prospect.

**Moussa Diaby Nears £51m Exit to Saudi Arabia**

Meanwhile, Villa are expected to finalise the sale of Moussa Diaby to Saudi Pro League side Al Ittihad in a deal worth around £51m. Diaby made 54 appearances for Villa across all competitions, scoring 10 goals and providing nine assists in an impressive debut season.

Villa have already spent the money they will receive for Diaby’s transfer on Amadou Onana, announcing the Belgium midfielder’s capture earlier this week. Onana has signed a long-term contract following his £50m switch, with the deal including add-ons and a sell-on clause.

Aston Villa maintain interest in Joao Felix of Atletico Madrid if an affordable package can be reached

Villa boss Unai Emery is keen to add further reinforcements to his side

Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone wants Felix’s future sorted

Felix’s future remains up in the air after he spent last season on-loan at Barcelona

Villa are expected to finalise the sale of Moussa Diaby to Saudi Pro League side Al Ittihad