thrilled to welcome back Joao Felix after his impressive loan spell in the second half of the 2022-23 season.
The Blues decided to make the move permanent last summer, securing a £45m deal with Atletico Madrid, who had initially spent over £100m on Felix in 2019.
Despite being one of Chelsea’s priciest summer signings and committing to a seven-year contract, it’s surprising to see Felix struggle for playing time under Enzo Maresca.
The 25-year-old has only started three of Chelsea’s 23 Premier League matches, often playing second fiddle to Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke, Pedro Neto, and Jadon Sancho.
Growing frustrated with his lack of minutes, Felix is reportedly pushing for a move before the January transfer window closes, according to The Transfers Podcast.
If he doesn’t secure an exit, his situation may worsen, as Chelsea is eyeing a late January deal for Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho.
Earlier in the week, Aston Villa was in discussions with Chelsea about a potential deal for Felix, with Unai Emery seeing him as a potential replacement for Jhon Duran.
Duran, like Felix, has struggled for regular playing time this season, serving as backup to Ollie Watkins, and is now set for a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia.
AC Milan has also shown interest in Felix, but they are simultaneously considering Santiago Gimenez from Feyenoord.
Chelsea has had a quiet January transfer window but could finalize several outgoing deals before the February 3 deadline.
In addition to Felix, Axel Disasi has been linked with a move away from the club, with Villa expressing interest in the defender.
Under new manager Maresca, Chelsea had an impressive first half of the season, positioning themselves as Liverpool’s main rivals for the Premier League title.
However, their form has declined over the past month, dropping Chelsea to sixth place, 13 points behind Liverpool.
Chelsea suffered their third league defeat in six matches on Saturday, as Manchester City came from behind to win 3-1.
The Blues will be eager to return to winning ways on Monday when they face former manager Graham Potter’s West Ham.
