Diego Simeone has suggested that Joao Felix remains in contention to represent Atletico Madrid despite persistent speculation regarding a transfer to Chelsea.
Felix spent the 2023-24 campaign away from Civitas Metropolitano, making a total of 44 appearances during a loan stint at Barcelona.
Despite his return to his parent club, it was expected that the Portugal international would soon find a new team for the upcoming season, it perceived that he does not feature in Simeone's plans.
A return to Barcelona was mooted, as was a transfer to Aston Villa, yet Chelsea are now known to be the frontrunners for Felix's signature.
The 24-year-old was the alternative added to the mix when the Premier League outfit backed out of a deal for Samu Omorodion, both clubs retaining a desire for Conor Gallagher to move in the opposite direction.
If reports are to be believed, there remains the likelihood that both deals will eventually go through, providing Chelsea can successfully negotiate a fee for Felix.
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Simeone comments on Felix future
While the majority of their La Liga rivals have already played their opening match of the season, Atletico are the last team in action away at Villarreal on Monday night.
Felix has played on three occasions during pre-season, featuring for no more than 45 minutes against each of Getafe, Kitchee and Juventus.
With minutes under his belt, it appears that Simeone is prepared to use the versatile attacker in his squad for the game versus the Yellow Submarine.
Speaking to reporters, the Argentine said: "He is doing very well, as you can see.
"His behaviour is what is expected of any footballer at Atleti, commitment, training in the best way, ready for whatever is proposed to him and competing with teammates. Time will tell if we can use him tomorrow or not."
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Is an appearance realistic?
Despite Simeone suggesting that Felix could face Villarreal, club officials may have a different opinion given that the exit of the forward is crucial to their efforts to get on the right side of financial fair play.
Antoine Griezmann and Alexander Sorloth will start, ensuring Felix will only be selected among the replacements at best.
A report last week suggested that Atletico's hierarchy wanted to sign Gallagher by Wednesday in order for the midfielder to be included in an official presentation along with their other fresh faces.
That may mean that developments could occur at a pace on Monday and Tuesday, Chelsea also hoping to have Felix available for their trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday afternoon.
Darren Plant
