Milan have reached an early decision regarding the potential permanent transfer of Felix from Chelsea

AC MILAN HAVE QUICKLY REACHED A DECISION ON JOAO FELIX'S FUTURE FOLLOWING HIS JANUARY LOAN MOVE FROM CHELSEA. THE SERIE A GIANTS ARE NOW CONSIDERING WHETHER TO ACTIVATE A PERMANENT TRANSFER DEAL WORTH €45 MILLION

Félix joined Milan on a season-long loan in August 2023, with an option to buy set at €40 million. While the Atletico Madrid loanee showed flashes of brilliance—netting eight goals and six assists in 32 appearances—his inconsistency and hefty wage demands ultimately swayed Milan’s hierarchy. Injuries and tactical mismatches under Stefano Pioli further limited his impact, with the Portuguese international often struggling to cement a starting role.

João has incredible talent, but we need players who can deliver week in, week out,” a Milan insider told Gazzetta dello Sport. “The financial package didn’t justify the risk.”

Financial Factors Behind the Decision

Félix’s salary, reportedly exceeding €6 million annually, posed a significant hurdle for Milan, who are operating under strict Financial Fair Play (FFP) constraints. The club also balked at Chelsea’s asking price, preferring to allocate funds toward younger, more versatile forwards. With Rafael Leão and Olivier Giroud (now departed) as focal points, Milan’s new manager Paulo Fonseca has requested reinforcements who better suit his high-pressing system.

Chelsea’s Dilemma: What Next for Félix?

Félix’s return to Chelsea complicates the Blues’ summer plans. The forward is not in new manager Enzo Maresca’s long-term vision, and Atletico Madrid remain eager to offload him permanently. Chelsea had hoped Milan would exercise their purchase option, but with that now off the table, the London club may need to accept a cut-price deal or another loan.

Saudi Pro League clubs and former suitors Barcelona are monitoring the situation, though Félix is believed to prefer staying in Europe.

Milan’s Revised Transfer Strategy

With Félix out of the picture, Milan are accelerating moves for other targets. LOSC Lille’s Jonathan David and Roma’s Tammy Abraham top their shortlist, while RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško has also been linked. The Rossoneri are keen to secure a physical, mobile striker to complement Leão’s creativity and Fonseca’s tactical demands.

Fan Reactions: Relief and Frustration

Milan supporters are divided. Some argue Félix’s departure frees up resources for more reliable signings, while others lament the missed opportunity to unlock his potential. “He had moments of magic, but too many quiet games,” tweeted one fan. “Better to spend on someone like David who guarantees goals.”

Chelsea fans, meanwhile, expressed frustration over another failed loan exit. “We’re stuck in a loop with Félix. Time to cut our losses,” wrote a Blues supporter.

What’s Next for Félix?

The Portuguese forward faces an uncertain future. Atletico Madrid, who extended his contract to 2027 before loaning him to Chelsea in 2022, are desperate to sell but may struggle to find suitors willing to meet their €50 million valuation. Another loan, potentially to a La Liga or Bundesliga side, appears likeliest.

Why This Decision Matters

For Milan, passing on Félix signals a pragmatic shift toward sustainable recruitment under Fonseca. For Chelsea, it prolongs the challenge of recouping funds from a €126 million flop. The saga also highlights the risks of high-profile loans in an era of financial austerity.