Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jul 27: Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr are reportedly on the verge of signing Portuguese forward Joao Felix from Chelsea in a deal worth £44 million, according to Sky Sports. The agreement could be finalised within the next 24 to 48 hours, as talks between Al-Nassr and Felix’s representatives are said to be in advanced stages.

The 25-year-old attacker had recently been linked with a return to his former club Benfica, but Al-Nassr have now stepped in with a lucrative offer as they continue their aggressive push to dominate the Saudi Pro League.

If the transfer goes through in time, Felix could join Cristiano Ronaldo and the rest of the Al-Nassr squad for a pre-season friendly against Toulouse on Wednesday, scheduled to take place at the Untersberg-Arena in Grödig, Austria.

Felix initially joined Chelsea on loan from Atletico Madrid during the 2022/23 winter transfer window, scoring four goals in 20 appearances. Impressed by his impact, Chelsea made the move permanent in a deal worth £46.3 million, bringing the Portugal international back to Stamford Bridge.

Felix began his professional career at Benfica, where his performances quickly elevated him to Europe’s spotlight, eventually leading to a record-breaking move to Atletico Madrid in 2019. During his time in Spain, he won the La Liga title and continued to feature regularly for the Portugal national team, earning 45 caps since his debut.

Chelsea, meanwhile, appear ready to pivot should Felix depart. The club is reportedly in advanced discussions with Ajax for a move involving young centre-back Jorrel Hato and is also holding talks with RB Leipzig over Xavi Simons — a highly rated midfielder who could fill the creative void left by Felix.

The potential exit of Felix would free up financial and tactical space for Chelsea’s ongoing rebuild under new leadership, with a growing emphasis on youth and versatility.