HITC understands that Aston Villa are continuing to work on a deal with Atletico Madrid for Joao Felix.

Unai Emery’s side have been very active in the transfer market this summer but they are eager to capture Joao Felix as a statement signing.

HITC revealed on Tuesday that Villa want to sign Felix on a permanent deal and are prepared to make him their top earner on a wage of around £150,000 per week.

The 24-year-old has returned to training with Atletico Madrid and starred in their latest pre-season friendly against Getafe.

However, Atletico have made it clear that they would like to move Felix on this summer and he is also eager to complete a move away.

Reports from Spain suggested Felix wanted his future sorted before Atletico fly out to Hong Kong on Sunday, but Villa are still working hard behind the scenes to make progress on a deal.

Villa are not the only team pursuing a deal for Felix, with his former side Benfica also in the mix for a loan deal.

But recent comments from Benfica president Rui Costa will be music to the ears of Villa fans.

“It’s not possible for Benfica to pay what Atletico Madrid want today for Joao Felix,” Costa said.

“We’d love to bring him back but it doesn’t look like a possibility for us, at all.”

With Benfica pulling out of the race, it leaves Villa in a strong position to get a deal over the line.

HITC understands that Atletico and Villa have been locked in talks over a deal that would be worth over £50million. One possible option that has been discussed is an initial loan deal with a mandatory buy clause attached.

Felix has five years remaining on his contract with a wage of £250,000 per week – talks are continuing over how his wages would be settled.

Barcelona still looming

One issue in Villa’s pursuit is Barcelona’s continued interest.

Felix spent last season on loan at Camp Nou and would be open to a return – even if he faces more competition for his spot from the likes of Dani Olmo and Nico Williams.

Barcelona remain interested in a potential deal but Villa, through President of Football Operations Monchi, are working hard to pip the Catalan giants to a deal.