Man Utd handed blow in Joao Felix pursuit?

Manchester United have been handed a potential blow in the pursuit of Atletico Madrid star Joao Felix.

The Portuguese has been in-and-out of the starting line-up for Atletico this term and he is eager to head for the exit door.

Atletico boss Diego Simeone has refused to rule out his winter exit, but the Spanish giants won't let him go for cheap.

It was recently claimed that a loan deal could be a possibility with Atletico wanting to ease their Financial Fair Play issues.

However, AS report that they are no longer looking at the option following their decision to loan out Matheus Cunha.

Atletico are now looking into the permanent sale of Felix for €100m. United are unlikely to pay such a figure in January.

United don't have funds to spend in the New Year as the Glazers are currently open to parting ways with the club.

The hierarchy are only expected to pursue loan deals next month.