Portuguese forward Joao Felix is on the verge of completing a high-profile transfer from Chelsea to Saudi Pro League giants Al Nassr. Reports indicate that the two clubs are close to agreeing on a £44 million deal, with final terms expected to be settled within the next 24 to 48 hours. This move will see Felix join Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr as the Saudi club aims to strengthen its squad and compete for the league title.
Joao Felix, aged 25, initially joined Chelsea on loan during the winter transfer window of the 2022/23 season, making a strong impression by scoring four goals in 20 appearances. His performance convinced Chelsea to secure him on a permanent basis from Atletico Madrid for a fee reported to be around £46.3 million. However, his stay at Stamford Bridge lasted less than a year before a loan spell at AC Milan from February to May of the last season.
Joao Felix Transfer Summary
- Player: Joao Felix
- Age: 25
- Current Club: Chelsea
- New Club: Al Nassr
- Transfer Fee: £44 million
- Previous Loan: AC Milan (Feb-May 2025)
- Permanent Chelsea Signing: January 2024 (from Atletico Madrid)
- Previous Clubs: Benfica, Atletico Madrid
- National Team Caps: 45 (Portugal)
- Expected Announcement: Within 24-48 hours
- Joining Ronaldo: Yes, at Al Nassr
- Chelsea Transfer Plans: Pursuing Xavi Simons and Jorrel Hato
Joao Felix’s time at Chelsea has been a rollercoaster since joining permanently from Atletico Madrid in January 2024. After a short but impressive loan stint at AC Milan between February and May 2025, Felix returned to Stamford Bridge, only to find his position uncertain under the club’s evolving transfer strategy. Chelsea’s decision to rebuild with younger and more dynamic players like Xavi Simons and Jorrel Hato opened the door for Felix’s departure.
Despite flashes of brilliance, the 25-year-old struggled to consistently cement his place in the starting lineup at Chelsea. The club has now decided to offload the talented forward, with Al Nassr keen to snap him up and add him to their growing collection of international stars.
Joining Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia
The move to Al Nassr isn’t just about money—it’s about opportunity, status, and joining one of the most influential figures in football history. Joao Felix will now share the pitch with Cristiano Ronaldo, who has transformed the club’s global profile since joining in late 2022. Playing alongside Ronaldo, a living legend and Portugal’s all-time top scorer, provides Felix with a unique chance to rejuvenate his career in a league that’s gaining traction globally.
The Saudi Pro League has become a destination for elite European players, with Al Nassr leading the charge. The club views Felix as a long-term investment who can serve as the face of the next generation, with Ronaldo still playing a mentorship and leadership role.
Now, Al Nassr is poised to finalize the signing of Joao Felix, marking a significant addition to their attacking lineup alongside Cristiano Ronaldo. The Saudi club has been actively pursuing the Portuguese international to boost their chances in the Saudi Pro League. Felix’s arrival is anticipated ahead of a friendly match against Toulouse, where he could potentially share the pitch with Ronaldo.
Before his time at Chelsea, Joao Felix began his professional career at Benfica, where his standout performances earned him a big-money move to Atletico Madrid in 2019. At Atletico, Felix developed into a key player, helping the club secure a La Liga title and making 45 appearances for the Portuguese national team since his international debut in 2019.
Interestingly, Benfica was also interested in re-signing Felix, but the club could not match the financial offer made by Al Nassr. This transfer reflects the growing trend of top European players moving to the Saudi Pro League, attracted by competitive contracts and the league’s expanding profile.
Chelsea, meanwhile, are preparing for life after Joao Felix by entering advanced talks to sign RB Leipzig midfielder Xavi Simons. The Blues are also reportedly in discussions with Ajax for centre-back Jorrel Hato, signaling a busy transfer window focused on strengthening their squad for the upcoming season.
Joao Felix’s transfer to Al Nassr represents another chapter in his eventful career. From his promising beginnings at Benfica to his record-breaking transfer to Atletico Madrid, and now his move to Saudi Arabia, Felix’s journey highlights his continued ambition to succeed at the highest levels of football.
The Saudi Pro League has rapidly evolved into a serious destination for global talent. The arrival of Joao Felix—alongside stars like Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, and Aymeric Laporte—reinforces the league’s ambition to rival Europe’s elite. For fans, it’s another reason to follow the action in the Middle East, as more and more big names opt to take their talents to Saudi Arabia.
Felix is not just another signing; he represents a bridge between experience and youth, flair and discipline. If he flourishes in this new environment, it could reshape his international career with Portugal and reestablish his reputation among Europe’s top forwards.
FAQs
When will Joao Felix be announced as an Al Nassr player?
The official announcement is expected within the next 24 to 48 hours.
What is the transfer fee for Joao Felix to Al Nassr?
The deal is reportedly worth £44 million.
Did Joao Felix play for any other clubs recently?
Yes, he had a loan spell at AC Milan earlier in 2025 and previously played for Atletico Madrid and Benfica.