Felix is set to leave Chelsea just 12 months after joining. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

'Deal is understood' – Sky Germany reporter shares update on Benfica’s pursuit of Joao Felix

Originally posted on Chelsea News | By Charlie Patrick | Last updated Jul 26, 2025 10:30 AM ET

Benfica are still pushing to sign Joao Felix, with a deal understood to be likely according to Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg.

Chelsea signed Felix last summer for £45m from Atletico Madrid, but 12 months later it appears he’ll be on the move.

Felix didn’t feature regularly through the first half of last season, and managed just one Premier League goal in 12 appearances.

Joao Felix likely to join Benfica

Felix decided he wanted a fresh challenge in January and joined Italian giants AC Milan on loan, but could only manage three goals in 21 appearances in all competitions.

Milan opted against signing the Portugal international permanently, and he’s not part of the plans at Chelsea following the signings of Liam Delap, Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens, with Xavi Simons also expected to join.

There’s interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League, but Felix has made it clear his preference is a return to Benfica.

Benfica are said to be prepared to do a permanent deal, with Chelsea reportedly setting their asking price at £43.3m, and Plettenberg has now provided an update.

He took to X.com and said:

“SL Benfica are still pushing to sign Joao #Felix, as reported.

“A deal is understood to be likely, and the player’s camp are optimistic about completing the return.

“The 25 y/o is open to joining #Benfica. He is under contract with Chelsea until 2031. #CFC”

Christopher Nkunku expected to leave

Felix isn’t the only attacker set to leave Chelsea this summer, with Christopher Nkunku also heading towards the exit door.

Chelsea are said to want £43.3m for the France international, having reportedly wanted in excess of £60m in January.

Bayern Munich and Manchester United are interested, whilst fellow Premier League clubs Newcastle and Nottingham Forest are keeping tabs, although no official bids have been made for the 27-year-old yet.

This article first appeared on Chelsea News and was syndicated with permission.

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