Aston Villa to make marquee signing as £180k-a-week Joao Felix admission made - expert

Ty Bracey thinks that Aston Villa signing Joao Felix would be a positive move but believes the potential fee could be a stumbling block.

Duncan Castles reported, via The Transfers Podcast (4 July) that the Villans were set to battle Benfica to sign the Portuguese international this summer.

The 24-year-old looks set to depart Atletico Madrid after falling out of favour under Diego Simeone with a move to Villa Park on the cards.

Villa podcaster Bracey has suggested that Felix would be a good signing for Unai Emery but was cautious about the transfer fee and wage demands.

Speaking exclusively to Villa News, Bracey said: "I think the fee would be the deciding factor along with his wage. I don't know what the cost would be to buy him.

"I do think it would be a good signing but an expensive one for sure, his wage would probably be in excess of £180,000-a-week, that wouldn't surprise me.

"He'd definitely be a marquee signing, I think he'd be great but it all hinges on if he wants to join. He brings Champions League experience, he's played at the highest level so the pressure side of the game wouldn't be a problem.

"He's a very talented footballer, very skilful and we know he's capable of scoring goals so he's not someone I would say no to."

Aston Villa are interested in Joao Felix

With Jhon Duran staring at the Villa Park exit door, with West Ham United linked to signing the Colombian, a forward will be needed this summer.

Although not a like-for-like for the 20-year-old, Felix could prove to be a positive replacement option alongside or as backup to Ollie Watkins.

The Portuguese international would bring a point of difference to the Villa squad given his ability on the ball and eye for goal.

The 24-year-old is versatile enough to feature through the middle, out wide or even as a number ten if needed.

It remains unclear as to how much the Villans would have to part to sign Felix but there is no doubt that he could shine if given the chance at Villa Park.

In other Aston Villa news, Unai Emery urged to sign Wilfried Ndidi in ‘massive’ transfer verdict.

For more Aston Villa news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.