Joao Felix, currently on loan at Chelsea from Atletico Madrid, has hinted at the possibility of extending his stay with the London club beyond the current season, despite the team’s recent struggles.
Since joining Chelsea in January, the 23-year-old Portuguese talent has made 18 appearances for the Blues, finding the net three times during his time on the pitch.
While Felix is set to return to parent club Atletico Madrid this summer, his long-term future at the Wanda Metropolitano remains uncertain. Reports suggest that his relationship with Atleti head coach Diego Simeone has deteriorated this season, and with Simeone expected to remain at the helm of the Red and Whites, Felix may find himself surplus to requirements next season.
Chelsea’s disappointing campaign has seen them languishing in 12th place in the Premier League table, a mere three points above 14th-placed West Ham United. As a result, the club will not participate in European competition next season.
However, Felix has indicated that he has not yet made a decision about his future and has expressed contentment with his time at Chelsea, hinting at the possibility of a permanent move.
Speaking to Chelsea TV, Felix said, “I haven’t made a decision yet regarding my future, but I have thoroughly enjoyed these four/five months. It’s a top club, and everyone here has been incredibly supportive. My teammates have been unbelievable. I genuinely enjoy being here.”
Despite reported interest from Newcastle United, who have secured Champions League football for the upcoming 2023-24 campaign, Felix has recently refuted claims of a potential move to St James’ Park during the upcoming transfer window.
Manchester United is also said to have a long-standing interest in the Portuguese forward, and a victory against Chelsea on Thursday night would secure the Red Devils a place in next season’s Champions League.
Felix made his switch from Benfica to Atletico Madrid in 2019 and has since represented the La Liga side on 131 occasions, contributing 34 goals and 18 assists to their cause.
Having signed a new contract with Atletico before joining Chelsea on loan, Felix’s current agreement with the Spanish capital club is set to run until the summer of 2027. Atletico president Enrique Cerezo recently stated that there would be a place for Felix in the team upon his return, but he stopped short of providing any guarantees about his future.
