Manchester United will consider making an offer for Joao Felix if Chelsea decide against signing the Portuguese international on a permanent basis, according to reports in Spain.

The forward is on loan at Stamford Bridge until the summer but his parent club, Atletico Madrid, are expected to demand a fee in the region of €100m (£88m).

Felix has looked impressive in patches since moving to the Blues during the January transfer window, with his teammate Enzo Fernandez having praised the 23-year-old’s ability.

“Felix is a great player, just incredible. He has an impressive set of qualities, which makes him a key figure for our team. I hope that in the summer Chelsea will do everything possible to keep him here.”

Due to Financial Fair Play rules, Chelsea will need to plan their summer spending very carefully and, if Felix doesn’t do enough to convince them to pay out such a substantial sum, he could return to Madrid.

United are on the lookout for a new number nine but, whether Felix would fit the profile that manager Erik ten Hag is looking for, it is up for debate. The Portuguese star is more effective playing as a number ten or as a support striker so it would be a surprise if the Red Devils were to make a sizeable offer for him.