Try as they might, Benfica have really tight purses in comparison to the big European clubs. They really wanted João Félix back at Estádio da Luz in hopes of providing him the platform to shine in an environment with less pressure than Chelsea. But they were never able to meet our terms, and we wouldn’t be playing nice with the team that squeezed us out of £107m for Enzo Fernández.
Now the “golden boy” is going southbound. According to Fabrizio Romano and Portuguese outlet Jornal de Notícias, Saudi club Al-Nassr is quite close to signing Félix in a permanent deal.
While Benfica were stuck in paying €25m for half of Félix’s “pass” and couldn’t give any guarantees they’d follow through with buying the full 100%, we can only assume Al-Nassr is going full throttle. Benfica themselves have dropped out of the race just as the Saudi club entered their lane.
If confirmed, Félix will be playing under manager Jorge Jesus alongside fellow Portuguese internationals, Cristiano Ronaldo and Otávio.
Al Nassr are in advanced talks to sign João Félix and hijack Benfica’s move!
Understand Al Nassr have sent permanent deal proposal to Chelsea and contract proposal to João.
The agreement is close as final details are set to be discussed in the next 24/48h. pic.twitter.com/98MfrB4pjo
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 26, 2025