Joao Felix is reportedly open to returning to Chelsea, with Liverpool now linked with a move for the Atletico Madrid star.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, the 23-year-old will entertain the idea of making another switch to west London having played for Chelsea in the second half of last season on loan.
Whilst a deal is unlikely, the news will come as a slap in the face to Liverpool, who have been linked with Felix in recent days as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah.
The Egyptian winger has been strongly linked with a blockbuster move to Saudi Arabia, and Liverpool could turn to Felix to replace Salah this summer.
However, it appears that the £113m Atletico forward is more open to joining Chelsea, even if the Blues themselves aren’t sold on signing the Portuguese international.
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Jacobs said: “Felix would also be open to a return to Chelsea, but even with Nkunku currently injured Pochettino and his sporting directors haven’t changed their position and are focused on other targets as it stands.”
Liverpool shouldn’t be worried if Felix joins Chelsea
Liverpool’s interest in Felix makes little sense given his role and how much Atletico want for the forward, and as a result, the Reds shouldn’t worry if the 23-year-old ends back up at Chelsea.
Felix was hardly a threat for the Blues last season in his short stint at the club, and for Liverpool, they are more than aware that there are better options in the market.
Moreover, with Salah unlikely to leave, a move for Felix might not even be needed, with Liverpool doing all they can to keep their star winger on the books for at least one more season.