Latest developments
- Aston Villa are keen on signing Joao Felix.
- Chelsea are open to listening to offers for the Portuguese.
- Villa are also interested in signing Axel Disasi.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Villa exploring a late deal for Felix
Aston Villa are interested in signing Joao Felix from Chelsea before the deadline day. The Blues are open to letting the Portuguese forward depart, as he isn't considered a key player under Enzo Maresca.
The story comes from talkSPORT, who further add that Villa's pursuit of Felix could be hampered by their interest in Axel Disasi.
Value (2.5/5): Villa want a loan deal
Unai Emery's side are eyeing a loan move for the ex-Atletico Madrid star, and they've also explored the possibility of signing Disasi on loan, having already agreed personal terms with the defender.
However, they would only be able to sign one of the pair on loan this winter. As such, the Birmingham-based outfit might be compelled to pay Chelsea a considerable fee for their £43 million summer signing.
Suitability (3.5/5): Top playmaker
Known for his dribbling ability and link-up play, Felix could add plenty of flair and creativity to Emery's side, who usually bank on their defensive prowess to engineer favourable results. However, his underwhelming work out of possession could leave Villa vulnerable on the break.
In the event of Felix becoming a Villa player, Emery would perhaps need to sacrifice some of his setup's usual compactness for the Portuguese's silky style of play. Opinions are split as to whether or not this would happen.
Upgrade? (3/5): High-profile addition
Both Morgan Rogers and Jacob Ramsey have done relatively well under Emery as a number 10 and left-winger respectively. However, Ramsey has struggled to consistently get on the scoresheet.
Felix has the ability and versatility to comfortably replace Ramsey as well as provide a solid challenge to Rogers through the middle, should Emery decide to experiment with his frontline in the event of his signing.
Logic (3.5/5): Push for a new destination
Felix has had limited starts in the Premier League under Maresca, who is blessed with a number of top attackers. The fact that Felix is on the market just six months after signing for Chelsea speaks volumes about his long-term destiny.
As such, it would be best for the 25-year-old to move to Villa to play under Emery, who has impressed in Birmingham with his ability to get the best out of his players.
Whisper+ verdict: 15.5/25
It's tough to see Villa spend big on an underperforming attacker mid-season. As such, they could be forced to pick one between Felix and Disasi. Question marks over Mings' fitness may tempt the club to focus on the French centre-back.
