Aston Villa are reportedly keeping a close eye on Joao Felix’s situation, as rumours of Chelsea’s transfer negotiations potentially falling through begin to circulate.
The 24-year-old’s proposed permanent move to Stamford Bridge is said to be in a ‘tense situation’. Earlier this week, Chelsea were leading the race for the Portugal international’s signature, posing a threat to Unai Emery’s dream of working with the player and the club’s ambition of assembling the strongest possible squad for a demanding season of Champions League football.
Speculation has been rife about whether interest would persist given Chelsea’s surprise return for the player, if other options in the market would be considered, or if the club would abandon their pursuit of attackers altogether before the window closes. However, they might want to hold off a bit longer, as recent reports suggest the first signs of these discussions breaking down.
According to Fabrizio Romano, negotiations over Felix’s permanent switch to Chelsea are still ongoing between West London and Spanish officials. However, it’s described as a ‘tense situation’, as the clubs have already experienced one deal collapse for Samuel Omorodion’s transfer to England, necessitating a completely new deal to be arranged from scratch.
No agreement is in place yet and negotiations have ‘not collapsed so far.’ A statement that does not sound entirely convincing of the Blues’ chances, however.
Also hanging in the balance and adding to the weight of the deal is Conor Gallagher’s future, as the £33million that was in place between the two clubs last week for his move to La Liga is now on hold. The former Villa target had travelled to Madrid, completed his medicals then was told to get on a flight back home and return to training.
But unfortunately for Villa, what is known is that if an accord is struck for Felix, it is expected to go through swiftly as the player has eagerly green lit the move and sent his agent Jorge Mendes to push through talks.
