Joao Felix’s whirlwind career is taking another turn — and this time, it’s leading him to Saudi Arabia.

The Portuguese forward is on the brink of completing a £44 million transfer from Chelsea to Al-Nassr, a move that not only marks another twist in his high-profile journey but also cements his place in football history.

At just 25, Felix will become the fourth most expensive player ever in terms of total transfer fees, reaching a jaw-dropping total of £204 million — trailing only Neymar, Romelu Lukaku, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Blues are set to recoup the £45 million they shelled out last summer to sign Felix permanently from Atlético Madrid — a rare bit of business that sees the club breaking even in a market that’s usually unforgiving. On the other, there will be disappointment that Felix’s undeniable talent never quite exploded in blue.

Felix first landed at Stamford Bridge on loan in January 2023, showcasing flashes of brilliance but struggling with consistency. Chelsea saw enough to gamble on a permanent deal the following year— only for the Portuguese star to spend last season on loan at AC Milan, where he managed just three goals in 19 appearances.

Now, he’s set to team up with Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr in a league that’s rapidly building its global profile. Al-Nassr, newly reinvigorated by Jorge Jesus’ appointment and Ronaldo’s contract extension, view Felix as a marquee addition in their bid to dominate the Saudi Pro League.

Despite reported interest from his boyhood club Benfica, it’s the Middle East that’s won the race for his signature. And with Chelsea still looking to trim their squad and balance the books, this deal couldn’t have come at a better time.

Felix’s story at Chelsea may not go down in the history books, but this transfer marks the end of a curious chapter — and helps the Blues continue their rebuild under Enzo Maresca without financial baggage.