AC Milan Makes Final Call on Chelsea's Unwanted Star Joao Felix
AC Milan has decided against making João Félix's transfer permanent this summer, following the Chelsea outcast's confirmed departure from the Italian club via social media announcement.
The Portuguese forward initially joined Chelsea on a permanent basis last summer in a £46 million ($63.1 million) transfer after a previous loan stint with the London club. However, he failed to impress manager Enzo Maresca and subsequently moved to Milan on loan for the latter half of the 2024-25 season seeking increased playing time.
Unfortunately, the 25-year-old Portugal international's time in Italy proved disappointing, managing only three goals across 21 appearances in all competitions. Milan's loan agreement with Chelsea contained no mandatory purchase clause, and the Italian giants have now officially announced his departure.
Milan confirmed the news through an Instagram post featuring Félix's image with the message: "All the best for the future, João!"
The forward was excluded from Chelsea's squad for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, joining other returning loanees Raheem Sterling, Ben Chilwell and Axel Disasi on the sidelines. Félix is now expected to search for a new destination this summer as Chelsea continues efforts to reduce their oversized roster.
His former club Benfica, which he departed in 2019, has been mentioned as a potential destination, with manager Bruno Lage addressing the speculation before their Club World Cup round of 16 match against Chelsea.
"João Félix [returning] has been a topic of discussion since his departure from Benfica," commented the ex-Wolverhampton Wanderers manager.
"He holds special significance for Benfica and for me personally, and he's currently enjoying his break. He's probably sleeping right now given the time difference. Our focus must remain on the players who will face Chelsea."
Nevertheless, Benfica president Rui Costa has recently dismissed speculation about Félix's potential return to Lisbon, declaring: "We are far from bringing João back - I cannot elaborate further. There's no realistic possibility I can envision making this happen."