Chelsea’s summer clear-out has delivered a surprise boost – João Félix, once labeled an "overpriced flop," is set to join Saudi side Al Nassr for €47 million. The deal not only lets the Blues recoup over half their investment but also fulfills the Portuguese forward’s dream of playing alongside his idol, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Fresh from last season’s Europa Conference League and Club World Cup triumphs, Chelsea have been on a spending spree: €250 million already splashed on signings like João Pedro and Jadon Sancho, with Harvey Simmons and Jorrel Hato in their sights, pushing total outlay toward €350 million. Meanwhile, sales of Callum Hudson-Odoi and Kepa Arrizabalaga have raked in €110 million, and Félix’s exit will pad that sum further.
The 2019 Golden Boy’s career has been a tale of unfulfilled promise. Snapped up by Atlético Madrid for €127 million at 19, he struggled to fit into their style, then flopped during loans at Chelsea and Barcelona. A €52 million permanent move to Chelsea this summer failed to reignite his form, leaving him stuck on the bench. With six years left on his contract, offloading him for €47 million is a win for Chelsea.
For Félix, the move is a heartfelt homecoming of sorts. A lifelong Ronaldo fan, he’s shared Portugal’s national team setup with his idol, winning two UEFA Nations League titles together. Al Nassr – already boasting Ronaldo and fellow Portuguese Otávio, plus stars like Sadio Mané and Marcelo Brozović – provides the perfect stage to link up with his hero.
After clearing out deadwood and cashing in on a underperforming signing, Chelsea can focus on their new-look squad. As for Félix, the question remains: can this once-touted talent finally shine in Saudi Arabia, under the wing of his childhood idol?
