Arsenal step up efforts to sign World Cup star as 'first bid made'

Arsenal are thought to be stepping up in their pursuit of Atletico Madrid star Joao Felix, as the race for his signature intensifies.

The 23-year-old has been rumoured with a move away following a disagreement with manager Diego Simeone, and some big clubs are hoping to sign him on loan.

Mikel Arteta is said to be keen to add both Joao Felix and Mykhaylo Mudryk to his attack this January, as the Spaniard looks to maintain top spot in the Premier League. And the North London side are now stepping up their pursuit, claim The Telegraph.

Manchester United launch Felix bid

Manchester United are also interested in the Portugese midfielder, and are thought to have launched an official bid of £3.5million for the player's services, according to Spanish news outlet Relevo.

The amount is considerably lower than the club's initial asking price of £11million. But the increasing tensions between player and manager may see Felix leave for a discount price. If Arsenal were to lure Felix to the Emirates, they will need to financially match the Red Devils.

Felix signed for the La Liga side for a whopping £113million in 2019, making him the most expensive teenager in history. Chief Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin has since admitted that “buying him was the biggest bet the club has made in its history,” he told TVE.

“I think he is a top, world-class player. But because of the relationship with the coach, his playing time, his motivation… it’d be reasonable to analyse an option for him to depart if one arrives," Gil conceded.

Arsenal and Chelsea enter "bidding war"

A knee injury to Gabriel Jesus has made attacking recruits a priority in Arsenal's transfer window, with Mudryk reportedly top of Arteta's shopping list.

The Shakhtar Donetsk striker is thought to want to join the Gunners. However, Chelsea have expressed their interest in signing the 22-year-old, with the club willing to match and trump anything that Arsenal offer, claim The Independent.

Arteta has insisted he won't be dragged into a "bidding war" with the London rivals, per The Telegraph, with the club thought to be 'staying calm', and confident that he will join the club this January.