Al Nassr Hijacks João Félix Transfer from Chelsea in €50M Deal, Benfica Left Stunned
In one of the most dramatic twists of the summer transfer window, Saudi Pro League giants Al Nassr have sensationally hijacked Chelsea forward João Félix’s transfer, outbidding Benfica with a deal worth €50 million. The unexpected move has left Benfica furious and Chelsea cashing in on a player they were keen to offload.
The 25-year-old Portuguese attacker, once hailed as one of Europe’s brightest young stars, had been in advanced talks to return to his boyhood club Benfica. The Lisbon-based side had earmarked him for a high-profile homecoming, even reserving their iconic No. 10 shirt in anticipation of his return. But Al Nassr’s late intervention changed the course of negotiations completely.
João Félix's Chelsea Struggles Open Door for Exit
Félix joined Chelsea on a permanent deal from Atlético Madrid last summer for £45 million, following an initial loan spell. However, his time at Stamford Bridge was far from successful. Under manager Enzo Maresca, he made only 12 Premier League appearances during the 2024/25 season, failing to cement a consistent starting role. A mid-season loan to AC Milan yielded just three goals in 19 outings, prompting Chelsea to consider exit options.
Al Nassr’s Big Money Move Seals the Deal
While Benfica were pushing for a structured loan or shared ownership agreement, Al Nassr swooped in with a game-changing offer: €30 million upfront and €20 million in performance-based add-ons. The Saudi club also agreed to Chelsea’s demands for a significant sell-on clause, ensuring future financial gains for the Blues.
Félix has signed a two-year deal with Al Nassr, reportedly lured by the chance to play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and work under Portuguese manager Jorge Jesus. The deal is also seen as part of Al Nassr's aggressive plan to assert dominance in the Saudi Pro League.
Benfica Left Frustrated as Chelsea Reap Rewards
Benfica president Rui Costa is said to be furious after months of negotiation were undone at the final hurdle. Despite strong emotional and historical ties with Félix, the club couldn’t compete with Al Nassr’s financial muscle. Sources close to the negotiations say Chelsea refused to budge on their €50 million valuation—paving the way for the Saudis to capitalize.
Chelsea Eye New Signings After Félix Sale
For Chelsea, the departure of Félix is a financial win. The club now has additional funds to step up its pursuit of RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons, a top target in Maresca’s rebuild of the attack. The Blues’ transfer model—investing in young players on long-term contracts—once again shows its value, as they break even on Félix despite his lackluster performances.
A Bold Move for Félix’s Career
The transfer has sparked intense debate among fans and pundits alike. At just 25, many question Félix’s decision to leave European football at a pivotal stage of his career. However, the player reportedly believes that Jorge Jesus can help him rediscover his best form in time for a potential 2026 World Cup call-up.
Social Media Reacts as Al Nassr Steals the Spotlight
The saga has lit up social media, with divided opinions on whether Félix should have returned to Benfica or embraced the Saudi project. As Al Nassr prepares to unveil their newest star, Benfica are left to regroup, Chelsea move on with fresh funds, and the Saudi Pro League continues to make waves in the global transfer market.