Joao Felix’s return to Chelsea this season has been a bit stop-start, so perhaps it’s not the biggest surprise that there’s transfer interest in him.

Joao Felix, who previously spent a short-term loan with the Blues in 2023, signed at Stamford Bridge last summer on a permanent basis. The 25-year-old attacker can’t force his way into Enzo Maresca’s best line-up, though.

In 19 appearances across all competitions this campaign, Felix has scored seven goals and created two assists. When he’s featured, the Portugal international has usually made quite a positive impact in the final third. However, he’s only started three matches in the Premier League due to the stiff competition in the Blues squad.

It’s been claimed this week that AC Milan are looking at Chelsea’s Felix in January as they consider strengthening the attacking options at the San Siro. Apparently, Milan boss Sergio Conceicao really likes the Blues forward.

Now, Milan has made contact with Chelsea about the playmaker and just received an immediate response.

Chelsea respond to AC Milan move for Joao Felix

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Milan has made an initial approach about signing Felix in January.

It is explained that Chelsea responded by saying “no” to Milan’s initial proposal. In fact, they’ve insisted that there are no plans to allow Felix to leave on loan.

Felix is expected to stay at Chelsea beyond the January window because this is still his first season since rejoining the club. Let’s see if Milan return before the transfer window shuts on 3 February, though.

John Obi Mikel desperately wants Felix to play more games for Chelsea, but head coach Maresca finds it tough fitting him into the XI.

Joao Felix chance may have opened up

If Felix can get himself in the Chelsea team on a regular basis, it might help quiet down all the transfer speculation around his future.

The Blues host Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday night in their next game, which feels like a must-win fixture because they’re without a victory in their last five Premier League results. Interestingly, Felix may suddenly get a massive chance to come in for a rare league start.

Chelsea playmaker Cole Palmer is an injury doubt to face Wolves, along with three other key teammates.

If Palmer isn’t available to play in the No 10 position, Felix is the obvious replacement to fill the hole behind the centre-forward.

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