Arsenal board 'big fans' of £113m Arteta target at the Emirates | OneFootball

Arsenal have been admirers of Atletico Madrid star Joao Felix for an extensive period and the Emirates Stadium hierarchy are ‘big fans’, according to journalist Paul Brown.

The Gunners may have spent close to £120million during the summer transfer window, but it appears boss Mikel Arteta has set his sights on strengthening his squad further in January.

What’s the latest news involving Felix?

According to Spanish sources, Arteta is looking to bolster his attacking options and Arsenal are among a trio of Premier League clubs targeting Felix.

The report suggests Manchester United and Chelsea are also in the running for the 23-cap Portugal international’s signature but a move to north London could be the best option.

It is understood that Felix wants to leave Atletico when the transfer window reopens in January and has lost patience with boss Diego Simeone.

The 22-year-old has made 12 appearances since the campaign got underway but is still waiting to find the back of the net.

Felix has been on Atletico's books since becoming the fifth most expensive player in history when he completed a £113million switch from Benfica three years ago.

What has Paul Brown said about Felix?

Brown understands that Arsenal have been keeping tabs on Felix for a prolonged period of time and he is admired behind the scenes at the Emirates Stadium.

The journalist believes members of the Gunners' hierarchy have been impressed with the attacker and a January move has not been ruled out.

Brown told GIVEMESPORT: "Arsenal have, for a long time, looked at Joao Felix.

"I think he's known very well to some of the hierarchy there, who are big fans and have been for quite a while."

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How does Felix compare to Arsenal's other attacking stars?

Although Felix has failed to get his name on the scoresheet during the early stages of the campaign, statistics show he has averaged more assists per 90 minutes than Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard.

The Portuguese star also applies pressure to opponents more times than Bukayo Saka, while he tackles a greater number of dribblers than Gabriel Martinelli, so it is clear that he is willing to contribute defensively.

With that being the case, Felix - who has won the La Liga title during his time at Atletico and also lifted silverware with Portugal and Benfica - would be a shrewd acquisition by Arsenal chief Arteta and could boost their hopes of clinching trophies in the not-too-distant future.