João Félix might be heading to Saudi Arabia, and it’s not just another loan move. Al Nassr are now in serious talks to sign him on a permanent deal. Benfica were hoping to bring him back, but it looks like Al Nassr are now ahead.
Al Nassr Are Serious And They’ve Moved Fast
In the last few days, things have moved quickly behind the scenes. Sources close to the negotiations, including transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, have confirmed that Al Nassr have already sent an official proposal to Chelsea for a permanent transfer, not another loan, not a player swap, but a full deal that would see Félix officially cut ties with the Premier League club.
At the same time, the Saudi Pro League side have also made their offer clear to the player himself. Fabrizio Romano report that Al Nassr have offered Félix a long-term contract.
They've offered him a high salary, though exact numbers haven’t been confirmed. It’s clear they’re serious about signing him and making him one of the highest paid player in the league.
They’re still sorting the final details like salary and other parts of the deal. And from the way things are going, the agreement is very close. The final discussion are expected to happen in the next 24 or 48 hours.
What About Benfica?
This twist is especially painful for Benfica fans, who had been quietly hopeful about bringing their prodigal son back home.
The Portuguese club had been in touch with Félix’s representatives and were reportedly looking into a potential loan deal, maybe even an eventual buy-back option.
But in reality, they just couldn’t compete with the kind of money Al Nassr are putting on the table.
Benfica were banking on sentiment and the player’s desire to revive his career in familiar surroundings. And to be fair, there were early signs that Félix was open to that idea. But football, especially at the top level, is rarely about sentiment, it’s about decisions that make sense financially and personally.
Why Félix Is Leaving Chelsea And Europe
Félix’s loan spell at Chelsea was underwhelming. João Félix did well at Chelsea. He scored few goals, but the team wasn’t in good term, so it was tough for anyone to shine. The club didn’t think he did enough to stay.
When Pochettino became manager, he chose not to keep Félix. He wanted players who fit the way he wants to play, and Félix didn’t fit the style.
Things were not better at Atlético Madrid, where Félix is still under contract. He and the coach were not in good term. That bridge was burned long ago, especially after the player openly admitted he preferred Barcelona’s style of play, something that didn’t go down well at Atletico.
The reality is, Europe’s top clubs just aren’t knocking for him right now. Barcelona can’t afford him and PSG have already moved on. And even clubs in Serie A or the Bundesliga aren’t ready to take a big-money gamble.
So, when Al Nassr called, with a serious project and serious money, it made sense.
What Joao Felix Move To Saudi Arabia Means ?
If Félix joins Al Nassr, he’ll be playing alongside with some big names, including Cristiano Ronaldo.
For a young Portuguese player like him, linking up with Ronaldo, even in his late career, is still something special.
Al Nassr aren’t just signing stars for showoff. They’ve been building a strong team with more structure and clear goals, both in their league and in the AFC Champions League.
At just 24, Félix could be an important player in their setup, someone who adds skill and creativity to a team that already plays with a lot of power and pace.
A coach familiar with the matter told local reporters:
“João Félix has the skill that can light up any league. In Saudi Arabia, with the space he’ll get and the players around him, he could finally find consistency. It’s not a step down if you use it right.”
And there’s some truth to that. The Saudi Pro League may not be the Champions League, but it’s no longer a retirement league. With the money, the infrastructure, and the quality improving every season, more players in their prime are taking the leap.
Fans Have Different Feelings About It
Fans have mixed feelings about this. Some are disappointed that a player once touted as one of Europe’s brightest young stars is choosing money over legacy.
Others are more understanding, pointing out how mismanaged his career has been and how a fresh start without the pressure of European expectations might be exactly what he needs.
One Chelsea fan posted:
“He had good moments, but the team was too messy for him to thrive. Hope he finds joy in his football again, even if it’s far from Europe.”
While a Benfica supporter shared:
“We dreamed. He’s one of ours. But we can’t fight oil money. Wishing him the best.”
From the neutral point of view, it’s just another reminder that football’s power balance is shifting. Saudi Arabia isn’t just attracting players in their 30s anymore. They’re going after prime talent and sometimes, they’re winning.
So, what’s next for Félix?
Talks are expected to move faster this weekend. The final discussions between Al Nassr, Chelsea, and Félix’s agents will likely wrap up by early next week. If all goes well, we could see an official announcement shortly after.
Chelsea are reportedly open to letting Félix go at a reduced fee, possibly below £30 million, as they’re keen to clear his wages and move forward with a more stable squad.
That would be a financial hit considering the £113 million Atlético paid back in 2019 but at this point, it’s more about cutting losses.
For Félix, this could be the start of a new journey, not the one he imagined when he burst onto the scene with that incredible Europa League hat-trick for Benfica, but perhaps the one he needs.
And who knows? If he tears it up in Saudi Arabia, reinvents himself, and plays with joy again, maybe Europe will come calling one more time. But for now, all signs point to Riyadh.
Wanderlustsport Verdict
João Félix’s move to Al Nassr isn’t just another transfer, it’s a statement about where the game is heading.
The lines between traditional football powerhouses and new-era giants are getting blurrier. And for players like Félix, who need both a career reset and the right environment, Saudi Arabia might be more than just a paycheck, it might be salvation.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments section.
Would you take the Saudi money at 24 if Europe turned its back?
Or would you fight to prove yourself again in Europe?
Either way, João Félix’s next chapter is coming and it's going to be loud.