Chelsea have already spent a lot on new signings and are currently looking to offload players who aren't in their long-term plans. Two high-profile players, Noni Madueke and Djordje Petrovic, have already left Stamford Bridge. Now it appears that many more people may be going. And one might be very close.
One among those expected to leave Chelsea is Joao Felix, who was signed last summer from Atletico Madrid for around £45m, with the expectation that the Portuguese international would thrive. However, despite signing a seven-year contract, he lasted only half a season at Stamford Bridge before being loaned out to AC Milan.
In the first half of the season, Felix made 12 appearances in the Premier League, starting just three times and contributing one goal and one assist. He scored six goals in the Conference League and FA Cup combined.
He was loaned to AC Milan in February after struggling and failing to make an impression at Chelsea, but Felix failed to make an impact in Italy as well. He scored only 3 goals in 21 appearances at San Siro and his stint there was not extended.
'Very advanced' - £45m Chelsea player close to leaving
Felix now looks set to leave Stamford Bridge after losing his jersey number to Dario Essugo. He was also left out of Enzo Maresca's squad for the Club World Cup.
According to Fichajes, Felix is one small step away from becoming a Benfica player again. Negotiations are very advanced and the deal could be finalised soon. The proposal presented by the Lisbon club contemplates a €25 million payment for 50% of the rights.
Chelsea are yet to agree to the proposed deal as the offer is significantly lower than what they seek for the player. However, the money they hope to generate is hard to get because no club will pay that for someone completely out of form and who has failed to meet expectations, wherever he has been.
As for Felix, it's the most sensible to move to Benfica, where he spent his best years and may rediscover himself. It remains to be seen what the Blues will do with the offer, with only a few clubs seemingly interested.