Aston Villa target Joao Felix following Chelsea frustrations

Aston Villa have emerged as frontrunners in the race to sign Joao Felix, who has struggled for regular game time at Chelsea.

The Portuguese international, signed from Atletico Madrid for £45 million last summer, has started just three of Chelsea’s 23 Premier League matches, fueling his discontent at Stamford Bridge.

Villa manager Unai Emery, a known admirer of Felix, is keen to bring the talented forward to Villa Park.

Emery reportedly attempted to sign the 24-year-old before his move to Chelsea, and the player’s situation has reignited Villa’s interest.

Interestingly, Chelsea are tracking Villa’s £80 million-rated striker Jhon Duran as they look to strengthen their attack.

A potential swap deal involving Felix could be on the cards as the January transfer window edges closer to its conclusion.