Felix facing uncertain future as Chelsea close in on Pochettino

Suraj Radia

• Updated: 25 Apr 2023 21:31 BST
• 2 min read

Chelsea are closing in on the appointment of Mauricio Pochettino as their new manager in a move which could have significant implications on the future of Joao Felix.

Pochettino is in pole position to take over at Stamford Bridge in the summer after holding talks with Chelsea in recent days, with the likes of Julian Nagelsmann and Luis Enrique out of the race.

The Chelsea hierarchy also admire up and coming managers such as Burnley’s Vincent Kompany and Feyenoord’s Arne Slot, however Pochettino is expected to be named as the successor to Frank Lampard.

RESPONSE: Kompany replies to Chelsea interest

Pochettino was snubbed during Chelsea’s previous appointment of Graham Potter after the club were concerned over his affinity for Tottenham, however they have since been encouraged by the reaction from players and fans over the tentative interest in the Argentine.

Key members of Chelsea’s squad are said to be excited by the prospect of hiring Pochettino due to his ability to develop players and his style of play.

Pochettino will conduct an assessment of Chelsea’s playing squad ahead of his anticipated arrival in the summer, leaving the futures of some players in doubt, including Felix.

Chelsea could agree another loan for Felix

Felix joined Chelsea on loan in January for a fee of €11 million and the club were initially impressed by his ability and wanted to make the move permanent, despite an underwhelming output of just two goals in 15 games.

However, the arrival of Lampard has seen Felix drop to the bench and there are now doubts over whether the club will sign him permanently, with Pochettino’s input expected to be crucial.

DECISION: Atletico make call on Felix future

Atletico are hoping to recoup as much of the €126m they spent on Felix as possible but, while they had initially set an asking price of €100m, they are thought to be willing to accept €80m.

Chelsea are desperate to offload players from their bloated squad this summer and had hoped to conduct a swap deal for Felix, however Atletico would prefer cash or, potentially, another loan deal in order to keep the forward’s wages off the books.

Another loan could cost Chelsea up to €20m but the club could sanction it depending on whether Pochettino feels Felix could be a valuable piece going forward or whether the money could be better spent elsewhere.