Arsenal and Manchester United are leading the race to sign Joao Felix on loan, according to David Ornstein, but only if his price comes down.

David Ornstein reports for The Athletic that Atletico Madrid are ready to loan out Joao Felix this month, with Arsenal and Manchester United leading the race.

Both clubs have a firm interest in Felix, but no one is willing to offer Atletico their asking price of a €15m loan fee, plus another €6m in wages. In total, €21m for a six-month loan.

Arsenal have concerns about their current attacking depth, but they’ll only firm up interest in Felix if the loan fee is slashed. Manchester United also won’t do a deal at the current price.

As it stands, there are no active negotiations with Atletico Madrid, only with intermediaries. But if the loan fee falls, Felix is likely to complete a Premier League move before the end of the month.

If the deal does come down to Felix’s own personal choice, The Athletic claim Arsenal would have an advantage through Thomas Partey’s personal friendship with the player.

Over in Spain, Marca claim Felix’s situation is now in the “decisive phase”, confirming that Arsenal and Manchester United are the leading contenders.

Ornstein previously confirmed that Arsenal were chasing Felix as well as Mykhaylo Mudryk of Shakhtar Donetsk. The Gunners want a permanent move for the Ukrainian international, whilst they’re pursuing a loan for the Portuguese forward.

In the meantime, Felix continues to play for Atletico. The forward scored the opening goal for the side on Thursday against Elche, heading home from close range.

Speaking after the game, Diego Simeone said: “While he’s here, I’ll try to get the best out of João Felix for the club. Then we will see what’s gonna happen.”