Chelsea are confident that they can reach an agreement with Atletico Madrid over a potential permanent transfer of Joao Felix in the summer, as long as the player agrees to stay, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The 23-year-old has won so many Chelsea fans over after playing just 150 minutes of football at the club.
His ability to operate in tight spaces, how he graciously glides past defenders, his goalscoring instinct… there are so many things to admire about him.
It is just not the fans, however. According to Romano, the people at Chelsea have also been impressed by Felix and are considering making him a permanent signing.
“No buy option was included in [Felix’s loan] contract,” the Italian journalist explained on his YouTube channel.
“This is important because it means he will be back to Atletico in the summer.
“But internally, Chelsea have always felt that if Felix is happy to stay, there will be a serious option to reach an agreement with Atletico.
“The first feeling is very good. He’s doing really well, and in training, Chelsea are very happy with his approach, his behaviour and are convinced that Felix is a fantastic signing.
“There is no buy option, but the relationship [between Chelsea and Atletico] is very good, and Felix himself will have to make a decision.
“If at the end of the season Felix decides he wants to stay at Chelsea, the club feel they can reach an agreement with Atletico for less than the €120-130million reported in January.”
Based on Felix’s recent interviews, it is also very clear that he is happy to be surrounded by what he described as “so much quality” at Chelsea.
“I feel comfortable playing in that team,” the Portugal international said after Saturday’s draw with West Ham.
So, hopefully it remains the case until the end of the season, when a final decision will have to be made.
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