How Talks Evolved
Al Nassr started formal contact with Joao Felix’s agents soon after Benfica began their own approach, and this move has shifted what once looked like a home return into a Saudi transfer saga. Felix left Atletico Madrid for Chelsea last season and found it hard to settle in London.
He spent early 2025 on loan at AC Milan and told his camp he wants a fresh start. At first, boyhood club Benfica seemed set to welcome him back on a fee that matched Chelsea’s €54 million price tag. Then Al Nassr entered detailed talks that aim to wrap up within the next two days. goal.com reported that the Saudi side also found support from Cristiano Ronaldo, who asked club leaders to back a signing that adds firepower in front of goal.
Why Saudi Clubs Invest Big
Al Nassr still pursues high profile names in their bid to turn the Saudi Pro League into a more watched competition, and landing Felix would tick another box after Ronaldo’s arrival. The club meets large salary demands and uses fast track deal making to attract players who seek regular play and a fresh stage.
This fiscal muscle often outpaces bids from European clubs, and it forces traditional teams to rethink their steps. Benfica placed key staff in talks with Chelsea and Felix’s agent Jorge Mendes, but Al Nassr’s financial terms look hard to beat. Fabrizio Romano shared updates that indicate both player and clubs expect a wrap soon.
Impact on Chelsea and Benfica
Chelsea face a clear choice after selling Felix to a non European side. They must further invest in attack or shift some targets into other leagues. The club valuation came from a fee they paid Atletico and they may not accept lower offers. This sale could free funds to chase younger talent or strengthen other zones of the field. Benfica now may turn to other options rather than delay plans for their own squad.
Their fans will miss a hero return but the club must adapt fast. The Eusebio Cup chance to have Felix in action passed as talks stalled. Benfica president Rui Costa led late stage talks in Lisbon, hoping to pair player and club in time for that game, but timing worked against them when Al Nassr upped their bid.
What Happens Next
If deals close in 48 hours, Felix can travel to Austria for the friendly with Toulouse on Wednesday at Untersberg Arena. He would link up with Ronaldo and a squad that aims for more wins in pre season. Chelsea managers must map out new signings or shift formation goals. Benfica will watch other talents and push for youth recruits. Fans on all sides will follow the story and wait for confirmation.
My Take
I think this move shows how money can reshape player paths in modern football. Clubs outside Europe now lure top talent away fast, and players can find new homes even when local clubs hope to sign them back. That dynamic adds fresh angles to transfer windows and tests what we once saw as fixed routes. And it might push European teams to act earlier or change how they value talent. For Felix, this could mean more game time and a place alongside a player he admires. For Al Nassr, it means a stronger attack and more global attention.
Sources: goal.com
