Felix in the middle as Benfica and Chelsea cross paths again

Since leaving Atletico Madrid — where he endured a turbulent spell — Joao Felix has struggled to settle. After flashes of form at Barcelona, a summer move to Chelsea last year opened a new chapter for the Portuguese forward.

But his time in London was short-lived; he was sent out on loan to Milan during the January window, with the Italian side not holding an option to buy. Now, he returns to Stamford Bridge, his future once again in question.

Although he gradually earned minutes from February onwards in Milan, his influence waned over time. He ended his half-season stint with three goals in 21 appearances (1,017 minutes in total). On Saturday, Milan officially confirmed that the player's loan has come to an end.

Back in Lisbon, the dream of reuniting with their former prodigy is still alive. Portuguese outlet A Bola reports that Benfica remain strongly interested in bringing Felix back to the Estadio da Luz, and could table a bid exceeding €30 million.

The plan would be to fill the creative void left by Angel Di Maria, who is expected to return to Rosario Central following the Club World Cup.

Fittingly, that very competition might provide a natural setting for discussions between the clubs. Benfica and Chelsea will face off on Saturday in the Club World Cup's last 16 — and Joao Felix could well be part of the conversation once the final whistle blows.

Now 25, his market value has plummeted dramatically. Once worth €100 million when he made the move to Atletico, he is now valued at just €20 million. Benfica — the club where it all began — are eager to help him rediscover the form that once made him one of Europe's most exciting young talents.