Donny van de Beek hasn't had much luck at Manchester United.
Signed by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, it became quickly apparent that he wasn't even a Plan B option for the Norwegian in the transfer market and he hardly played. Van de Beek hoped a loan move to Everton would help get his career back on track, but injuries and a lack of form also saw that plan fall flat.
However, a lifeline came for Van der Beek when his former Ajax manager Erik ten Hag was appointed at Old Trafford. Things seemed to be going well initially - the 25-year-old wasn't instantly added to the first team but was receiving more minutes and the odd start.
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But in United's game against Bournemouth disaster struck once again. Late in the first half, a rash challenge for an opponent took Van de Beek down and he needed to be substituted. Many fans said he was lucky to not have his leg broken.
Ten Hag said after the game: "Too quick (to say how bad). We have to wait 24 hours and then you can make the right diagnosis. The medical team have to do their work, it doesn't look that great."
United were already in the market for a striker in January, but now with Van de Beek's injury they have been left without cover for Bruno Fernandes. Combined with a packed fixture list, it's a position that could cause problems for the club throughout the season. Due to their financial circumstances, United do not have the funds to sign multiple players this January to plug every hole, so a catch-all solution will be the best option.
Therefore Joao Felix on loan is looking a more and more viable deal. Though initially just touted for the number nine role, Felix's ability to play on either wing or behind the striker as a secondary attacker would make him the perfect depth option for United's attack.
The only stumbling block would be the price, with Atletico Madrid demanding a package (including a fee and his wages) of around £15m to take him on loan for six months. But due to the situation, this may look more viable now he will cover Van de Beek's injury as well.
Though incredibly talented, Felix has never kicked on at Atletico and delivered on his hype or fee. The hope is that if he came to Old Trafford, more freedom would allow him to thrive.
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