Joao Felix Expresses Interest Returning Benfica Amid Chelsea Transfer Plans

Joao Felix, who joined Chelsea for £45 million last year, is set to leave the club this summer with a strong preference to return to his boyhood club Benfica. Despite his signing a seven-year deal at Chelsea, Felix struggled for first-team action, leading to a loan spell at AC Milan, which did not result in a permanent move. Benfica, coached by Bruno Lage who is influential in Felix's decision, is reportedly willing to offer around €30 million to Chelsea but faces challenges fitting Felix's wages into their strict salary cap, as he currently earns over €8 million net annually at Chelsea. Chelsea, who previously rejected Aston Villa's attempts to sign Felix and ruled out loan moves, appear more open to negotiating this summer. Felix has expressed a sentimental desire to return home, but financial considerations, especially regarding his salary, remain a significant obstacle. Meanwhile, Chelsea is also looking to offload other attackers, such as Christopher Nkunku, as they reshape their squad.