Aston Villa are reportedly interested in signing Chelsea’s Joao Felix before the January transfer window closes, with significant changes potentially occurring at the club. There are growing rumors that both Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran may leave, which could lead to Villa’s move for the Portuguese forward.

Felix joined Chelsea from Atletico Madrid last summer, with Conor Gallagher heading in the opposite direction. However, Felix has struggled to secure regular playing time this season. He has been an important contributor in Chelsea’s Europa Conference League campaign, scoring four goals in five matches, meaning his fitness is still sharp. Nonetheless, his lack of Premier League action could make him a valuable addition to Villa’s squad.

Report: Villa ‘Leading Chase’ for Joao Felix Villa are active in the final days of the window

chelsea joao felix

TalkSPORT reports that Villa are currently the frontrunners to sign Felix, despite his recent arrival at Chelsea in the summer.

Joao Felix’s Premier League stats – Chelsea squad ranking

Stats

Output

Squad rank

Appearances

12

=13th

Assists

1

=8th

Goals

1

=8th

Shots Per Game

1.7

4th

Key Passes Per Game

0.5

=11th

Match rating

6.52

=14th

Sources from talkSPORT have revealed that Felix is dissatisfied with his limited playing time at Chelsea, having started just three of 23 Premier League games under Enzo Maresca this season. His frustration has opened the door to a potential January exit. Villa’s interest is also boosted by Unai Emery, who is a long-time admirer of Felix, having tried to bring him in before his Chelsea move.

Although Chelsea were reportedly targeting Duran, with recent reports suggesting the Colombian is set to join Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, Villa may now have the financial means to sign Felix—especially if Watkins moves to Arsenal in the upcoming transfer window.

Felix spent the 2022/23 season on loan at Chelsea, scoring four goals in 16 Premier League appearances, as the club struggled under Graham Potter and Frank Lampard. However, his successful loan at Barcelona last year saw him hit double digits in goals across all competitions. His ability has earned him the ‘world-class’ label from Sky Sports in the past, showcasing his undeniable talent.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Joao Felix has nine goals in 45 appearances for Portugal’s national team.

Despite his challenges at Chelsea and a less-than-ideal time at Atletico, Felix, still just 25, brings valuable experience at the highest level. With Emery’s track record of improving players, this move could signal a career resurgence for the 45-time capped Portugal international.