Joao Felix has completed a loan move to AC Milan, set to last until the end of the season. The Portugal international, who has been on loan at Chelsea since last summer, found first-team opportunities limited at Stamford Bridge. This strategic move comes as Chelsea looks to navigate financial and squad challenges, leading to the temporary departure of Felix to Italy.
Felix initially joined Chelsea on a seven-year contract in August, following a £45 million permanent deal. During the second half of the 2022-23 season, he was on a loan spell at Stamford Bridge, where he managed to start only three Premier League matches this campaign. Despite regularly featuring in cup competitions and scoring seven goals, Felix struggled for minutes primarily due to Cole Palmer's emergence as a preferred choice in the number 10 role.
Another factor influencing Felix's loan move is the transfer market activities involving Christopher Nkunku. Nkunku's decision not to join Manchester United or Bayern Munich this summer contributed to Chelsea's decision to loan out Felix. Additionally, Chelsea's financial strategy played a role, with the club exploring options for Conor Gallagher amid Profit and Sustainability rule pressures.
Chelsea had attempted to extend Conor Gallagher's contract but failed to reach an agreement, leading them to consider selling him. Talks for signing Atletico striker Samu Omorodion also fell through, which made the Felix deal a necessary step for Atletico Madrid to secure funds for the Gallagher transfer. The exchange deal saw academy graduate Gallagher moving to Atletico Madrid for £33 million.
The paperwork for Felix's loan was submitted just ahead of the Serie A and Premier League transfer deadline on Monday. The Italian giants have paid a £5 million loan fee for Felix with no obligation to buy the 25-year-old forward in the summer. The move offers Felix a fresh start at AC Milan in pursuit of consistent playing time.
Felix began his professional career at Benfica before making a high-profile move to Atletico Madrid in July 2019 for £113 million. His loan to AC Milan marks another chapter in his career as he seeks to regain his form and showcase his talent on the Italian stage.
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