Terrible news hit Chelsea fans as the club and Joao Felix have reportedly come to a concerning agreement regarding his future, with the possibility of a £39 million U-turn already on the horizon. The latest developments suggest that despite initial plans, there could be significant changes to Felix’s transfer situation, raising questions about the player’s long-term position at the club.
Chelsea aren't expected to make major moves in the January transfer window, though they will likely be linked to several players. Instead, the club's focus is expected to be on trimming the squad and finding new homes for those who aren't in Enzo Maresca's primary plans.
Chelsea aren’t expected to make major moves in the January transfer window, though they will likely be linked to several players. Instead, the club’s focus is expected to be on trimming the squad and finding new homes for those who aren’t in Enzo Maresca’s primary plans.
This situation mirrors the previous January window, when Chelsea refrained from any significant spending after their summer outlay. It’s possible that the same will occur again this winter.
However, the club remains prepared to act if an opportunity arises, especially with key injuries to defenders and midfielders. These injuries have stretched Maresca’s core group of players, and while the squad remains strong, the absence of European football until March will test his ability to manage the team effectively.
Here’s the latest on Chelsea’s situation:
Felix’s Future
Joao Felix and Chelsea have agreed to assess his future at the end of the season rather than during January. Following a difficult return to London, the two parties have decided to allow Felix to complete his first full season before making a decision. Since his £45 million move from Atletico Madrid in August, Felix has scored just once in the Premier League and has played fewer than 500 minutes. He has had a more prominent role in the Conference League but in less competitive fixtures.
Despite the low impact, Felix’s short-term future with Chelsea is not in question, and he is expected to stay until at least the summer. A move away is still possible but not imminent. Chelsea reportedly remains interested in working with him, and the player has no intention of forcing a transfer.
The PR implications of selling Felix so soon after his high-profile signing would be significant, especially given the initial backlash over the deal. It could be argued that Felix could have been utilized more this season, but he hasn’t shown enough to secure regular minutes. His performance in a recent match against Ipswich Town highlighted some concerns, as he failed to impress when given a rare start.
Disasi’s Situation
Chelsea has no immediate plans to sell Axel Disasi in January but would consider offers if they meet the club’s expectations. Unlike Ben Chilwell and Carney Chukwuemeka, there’s no pressure for Disasi to leave. However, with the Frenchman struggling to adapt under Maresca and facing competition from the younger Josh Acheampong, his future could still be in flux. The club has struggled in the absence of Wesley Fofana, with no clear timeline for his return.
There is reported interest in Disasi, who was signed for £39 million last season. An unnamed Premier League club has already made an initial inquiry, and he was a target for Newcastle United in the summer.
Disasi’s current performance has not lived up to expectations, and his minutes could be taken over by Acheampong, who may offer more agility and potential. Chelsea should explore options to move Disasi on, as his contributions aren’t aligning with the team’s needs.