Chelsea are ready to part ways with Joao Felix permanently this summer as the club looks to trim its wage bill and reshape the squad.

According to the Evening Standard via Football London, the Blues have begun their summer clearout, and Felix is one of the key players set to leave. Talks are already underway for a possible return to Benfica, where the 25-year-old began his senior career.

Felix, who joined Chelsea on loan from Atletico Madrid in January 2023 before making his move permanent last summer, has struggled to cement a regular place in the team. With the club’s hierarchy focused on building a more sustainable squad, they are pushing for a permanent transfer rather than sanctioning another loan deal.

Benfica are keen to bring Felix back to Lisbon, with new manager Bruno Lage eager to reunite with the forward. Lage, who recently returned to take charge at the Estadio da Luz, played a significant role in Felix’s development during his breakthrough years at Benfica B and later the senior team.

Felix is also reportedly enthusiastic about a move back to Portugal, where he could revive his career under a manager who knows how to get the best out of him.

A deal would mark the end of another chapter in Felix’s turbulent spell in English football, as Chelsea continue their efforts to offload high earners and streamline the squad ahead of the new season.