According to Record, Benfica is getting ready to make a final push to capture Chelsea striker Joao Felix. After reaching a personal agreement with the 25-year-old forward, they are now getting closer to an agreement with Chelsea to buy half of his rights.
Chelsea is reportedly demanding at least €40 million (£35 million) before approving a sale, despite Benfica’s initial offer being around €20 million (£17.3 million). Benfica president Rui Costa has made the decision to submit a better offer and intends to complete the transaction within the next few days.
Half of Felix’s rights are currently being sought for about €25 million (£21.6 million). Benfica is making a significant commitment, but it shows how committed they are to closing a transaction. Félix was a member of Bruno Lage’s Benfica team that won the 2018–19 Portuguese league.
Felix is excited about the chance to return to his old haunt, and the former Wolverhampton Wanderers boss is certain he can bring out the best in both players. Felix has expressed his wish to rejoin Benfica at some point in his career, and this summer he might receive the transfer of his dreams.
Benfica turn the screws on Chelsea over Joao Felix deal
Nobody is stepping in to rescue Chelsea, who got themselves into a lot of trouble over the signing of Joao Felix. Benfica is the only team that has expressed interest, and the Portuguese powerhouses are in a very strong position, as the Sun notes in their report on the topic.
But even though Felix joined the team just a year ago, he is one of the many players who still need to be moved on. Due to little playing time, Felix spent the second part of the previous season on loan at AC Milan after Chelsea paid Atletico Madrid £45 million in the summer.
The Blues have to find Felix a new home this summer because Milan decided not to make the move permanent. According to The Athletic, Chelsea wants to sell Felix for £43.3 million, which sounds like a lot of money considering his season.
Saudi Arabian clubs are interested, although Felix has stated that he would rather rejoin Benfica, the team he played for as a youngster.
