The Standard: Chelsea star in talks with Champions League club, squad clear out gathering pace | OneFootball

Joao Felix is in talks over a return to Benfica as Chelsea prepare to step up their summer clear out according to reports.

The Chelsea squad are currently on a well earned break following their Club World Cup success against Paris Saint Germain in New York on Sunday.

Whilst the players are enjoying time off, work is continuing at the club in regards to both incomings and outgoings.

Felix in talks over Benfica return

Chelsea have been busy this summer and have already signed Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens and Joao Pedro to strengthen the attack.

Outgoings have also picked up with Djordje Petrovic and Noni Madueke leaving for Bournemouth and Arsenal respectively.

Felix is no longer part of the plans at Chelsea. (Photo by Ryan Hiscott/Getty Images)

Chelsea still have a number of players they are looking to move on and work is continuing in that regard, with Felix in that category.

The Portugal international joined Chelsea last summer from Atletico Madrid in a deal worth £45m, but spent the second half of last season on loan at AC Milan.

Milan opted against signing Felix permanently, and the 25-year-old has attracted interest from Saudi Arabia and Galatasaray.

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However, Felix has expressed his desire to return to Benfica, and The Standard have reported the Portuguese is in talks over a return.

The report adds Felix isn’t part of Chelsea’s plans anymore, and they have no desire to send him out on another loan.

Christopher Nkunku could stay

With Felix heading for the exit door, the future of Christopher Nkunku is still uncertain, even though he’s expected to leave this summer.

Nkunku is attracting interest from both Bayern Munich and Manchester United, with the Red Devils reportedly quoted £35m to sign the 27-year-old.

However, its been reported there’s a chance Nkunku could still end up staying, which would be quite something, and his situation remains one to watch for the remainder of the summer.