Milan decide on Joao Felix’s permanent move from Chelsea

Joao Felix’s brilliant Milan debut was followed by a string of disappointing performances, reportedly convincing the Rossoneri to abandon negotiations for a permanent transfer with Chelsea.

The Portuguese star moved to San Siro on deadline day in a six-month loan deal with no option to buy, meaning the two clubs would have needed to reach an agreement in the summer to prevent his return to the Premier League.

What was already certain was that Chelsea were expected to demand a substantial fee for the 25-year-old, having invested €52 million to sign him just seven months earlier.

Milan make final call on Joao Felix’s permanent transfer from Chelsea

While Joao Felix’s promising start at Milan—highlighted by a goal on his debut against Roma in the Coppa Italia—initially led the club to consider a permanent move, Calciomercato.com now reports that the Rossoneri have changed their stance.

The Diavolo have two options: they could attempt to sign the Portuguese international next summer for around €45m or pay to extend his loan for another season, with a permanent transfer later for a reduced fee of approximately €30m.

However, while waiting to appoint a sporting director, they have reportedly decided against pursuing negotiations with Chelsea, making his return to the Blues extremely likely.

Joao Felix played eight games across two different competitions after his debut, with his only other goal contribution coming in his side’s latest 3-2 win at Lecce, during which he delivered an assist.