Neom SC Are Interested In This Chelsea Outcast: Should The Blues Sell Him? | OneFootball

Joao Felix arrived at Stamford Bridge with high expectations. His talent was evident, and the London club expected him to adapt quickly to an attacking system that needed freshness and pace. However, the gamble did not pay off.

Lack of consistency, minor injuries and tactical decisions limited him in an environment that was already complex for anyone. Chelsea were betting on a rebuild with more consistent and physical players, which left Felix on the sidelines.

His subsequent loan spell at AC Milan was not brilliant either. In 21 games, the Portugal international only scored three goals and provided one assist. That reality has set alarm bells ringing at Chelsea.

Neom SC want to sign Chelsea Player Joao Felix

According to talkSPORT, Neom SC have Joao Felix among their targets for the summer transfer window. The Saudi club, who are looking to make a name for themselves in the local elite, are planning to sign big-name players for the 2024/25 season.

That strategy includes the 25-year-old Portuguese, who no longer has a place in Chelsea’s plans. However, Neom are not alone in the bidding. Al-Nassr are also keeping a close eye on Felix, although they will only try to sign him if they fail to secure the arrival of Luis Diaz from Liverpool. The scene is in flux, and Chelsea are watching with interest.

Opinion:

The sale of Joao Felix could represent immediate financial relief for Chelsea. The club need to free up the wage bill and add revenue to enable key signings. In this situation, if Neom SC or Al-Nassr make a firm offer, it does not seem logical to delay a departure that seems inevitable.

SL Benfica, despite the emotional bond with the player, can hardly compete financially with the Saudi clubs. For Chelsea, waiting for a possible return to Lisbon may be a romantic decision, but impractical in financial terms. The English club must consider the sporting project that Enzo Maresca is developing, and for that, they need resources.

As for Joao Felix himself, his time in Europe has not been enough to consolidate him. The Premier League and Serie A are too big for him in terms of pace and demands. In the Saudi Pro League, he could find a place to play with more freedom, less media pressure and a good income.

In terms of marketing, his name still attracts. For Chelsea, selling him now reduces risks. To sell him or wait for him in the hope of a revaluation is an uncertain move. If he explodes at Benfica, it would become an additional headache. Arabia, on the other hand, offers a comfortable escape route for both. Everything indicates that this time, the goodbye will be definitive.