João Félix Faces Uncertain Future as AC Milan Pass on Permanent Deal Amid Galatasaray and Saudi Interest
João Félix’s Loan Spell Ends Without Permanent Transfer at AC Milan
João Félix, the Portuguese forward currently under contract with Chelsea FC, is at a crossroads after AC Milan confirmed they will not pursue a permanent signing following his loan spell. Félix joined Milan on loan in January 2025, with the deal running until June 2025 and including no obligation to buy. Milan paid a loan fee reported to be between €2 million and €5 million and took on the responsibility of his salary for the duration of his stay.
Despite initial strong interest from AC Milan’s coach Sergio Conceição, who admired Félix’s qualities from his time managing Porto, the club ultimately decided to prioritize other attacking targets such as Marcus Rashford. Félix concluded his loan with just three goals in 21 appearances, a modest return that contributed to Milan’s decision to move on without making the deal permanent.
From Chelsea Promise to Milan Disappointment
Félix’s journey over the last season has been turbulent. Chelsea signed him in the summer of 2024 for approximately £46 million with high expectations. However, he struggled to secure a regular starting position, managing only three Premier League starts and scoring seven goals in 20 appearances before his loan switch.
His limited impact at Chelsea continued during his six months at Milan, where despite getting reasonable game time, he was unable to consistently influence matches. This underperformance has made his future uncertain as Chelsea look to offload players not fitting into their plans. Notably, Félix was excluded from Chelsea’s traveling squad for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, signaling he is surplus to requirements.
Benfica’s Interest and Rejection
Félix’s former club, Benfica, has been linked with a potential return for the forward. However, recent statements by Benfica’s president Rui Costa have dismissed the likelihood of the deal, indicating a return to Lisbon is not imminent despite affectionate remarks from the club’s manager Bruno Lage.
Galatasaray and Saudi Clubs Eye João Félix
As Chelsea prepare to move on from Félix this summer, several clubs have expressed interest in acquiring the forward’s services. Galatasaray and multiple clubs from the rapidly expanding Saudi football market have reportedly shown keen interest in adding an experienced attacking player like Félix to their ranks. These suitors see potential value in his skill set, hoping he can regain form and provide offensive firepower.
With Milan’s clear decision not to finalize a purchase, and Benfica ruling out a return, the possibility of Félix moving to Turkey or the Middle East this summer grows stronger. These destinations could provide him more consistent playing time and a fresh start away from the spotlight of top European leagues.
Chelsea’s Squad Reshuffle and Future Plans
Chelsea’s current approach focuses on trimming a bloated squad, offloading players who have not integrated well into the team and are unlikely to feature prominently in future seasons. Félix’s exclusion from major competitions and loan moves underline the club’s intent to refresh their attacking options.
While the exact price or terms for a permanent transfer remain undisclosed, Chelsea will almost certainly seek to recoup investments or potentially negotiate a lower fee to facilitate a move. The club’s willingness to loan Félix to Milan and now look elsewhere for his permanent sale reflects their strategic priorities in managing player resources.
Performance Snapshot: 2024-25 Season
| Team | Appearances | Goals Scored |
|---|---|---|
| Chelsea | 20 | 7 |
| AC Milan (loan) | 21 | 3 |
Outlook: What’s Next for João Félix?
João Félix must now navigate a critical summer market period to determine the next chapter of his career. With concrete interest from Galatasaray and Saudi clubs, as well as ambiguity over a return to Benfica, the forward’s priority will be finding a club where he can secure regular minutes and reestablish his reputation.
Both Chelsea and Milan have made their positions clear: Chelsea will no longer count on Félix, and Milan have passed on a permanent deal. This leaves the heavyweight of decisions to the player and his representatives to secure a future that matches his undeniable talent and ambition.
Sources reporting on these developments include Sports Illustrated, TransferFeed, Sky Sports, and AC Milan’s official communications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did AC Milan decide not to sign João Félix permanently?
AC Milan chose not to exercise the option for a permanent transfer mainly due to Félix’s modest performance during his loan spell, scoring only three goals in 21 appearances, and their shift to other transfer targets.
What was João Félix’s performance like at Chelsea before joining Milan on loan?
Félix struggled to secure a starting spot at Chelsea, starting only three Premier League matches and scoring seven goals in 20 appearances during the 2024-25 season before his loan move.
Is Benfica interested in re-signing João Félix?
Although Benfica’s coach spoke positively about Félix, the club’s president has recently dismissed the likelihood of Félix returning to Benfica in the near future.
Which clubs have shown interest in João Félix after Milan declined a permanent deal?
Galatasaray and several clubs from Saudi Arabia have expressed interest in signing João Félix as he looks for a new club this summer.
What are Chelsea’s plans regarding João Félix?
Chelsea appear keen to offload Félix as he is considered surplus to the team’s requirements, shown by his exclusion from the traveling squad for the 2025 Club World Cup and the decision to loan him out.
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