Chelsea in race against time to land £45million-rated Benfica starlet

Chelsea face a race against time to sign attacking midfielder Joao Felix after Benfica offered him a new deal with a massive £105million get-out clause.

Felix is said to be close to agreeing the contract, which could well put him out of the reach of the Blues for the time being.

Maurizio Sarri has been closely watching the new star of Portuguese football after a stunning start to the season – especially as the 18-year-old’s current deal sets his fee at a more affordable £45million.

Fenix is seen as one of the brightest young players coming through the ranks in his homeland, and has two senior goals for the Eagles to his name already.


Clubs in Italy and Spain are also on his trail, while West Ham tried to seal a switch last month.

But sources in Portugal say the player could agree a new deal at Benfica as early as Monday unless Chelsea step in.

The youngster, who operates as a No.10 or from the left side, has also bagged four times in eight games for his country’s Under-21s.

His current deal still has four years yet to run, but with scouts flocking to see him in senior action recently, Benfica are looking to ensure maximum value.

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