Joao Felix faces an uncertain future at Chelsea in the final hours of the January transfer window. The 25-year-old forward has been heavily linked with an exit from Stamford Bridge this month, having struggled to force himself into Enzo Maresca's side.

Despite having featured 20 times for the Blues across all competitions this season, Felix has played less than 1000 minutes. In fact, the Portugal international, who sees his contract expire in June 2030, has only averaged about 47 minutes an appearance while scoring seven goals and providing two assists.

While he's impressed when called upon, Cole Palmer has often been irreplaceable for the West Londoners. So, with that being said, football.london has rounded up everything you need to know about Felix and his future at Chelsea.

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Villa and Milan battle for Felix's signature

football.london understands that Aston Villa are interested in signing Felix, with Unai Emery said to be a huge admirer. While the Premier league outfit are keen, they're face tough competition from AC Milan for the 25-year-old forward's signature.

It's understood that Chelsea want £60m for Felix – an asking price which Aston Villa are currently unwilling to meet. The valuation could also price the Italian giants out of a move.

Super agent holds talks with Milan

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Felix's agent – Jorge Mendes – has already held talks with AC Milan over a potential move to the San Siro. It's said that Chelsea remain open to offers for the Portuguese ace as Sergio Conceicao, who recently replaced Paulo Fonesca as head coach, looks to strengthen his frontline.

Maresca addresses Felix 'problem'

Speaking to reporters ahead of Chelsea's 3-1 defeat to Manchester City, Maresca was asked for an update on Felix's future. The Blues boss said: "For sure, Joao is a Chelsea player. The problem, unfortunately, for Joao and Christo [Nkunku], the manager plays most of the games with one attacking midfielder and that is Cole Palmer.

"We have decided to play with an attacking midfielder in most of the games, so this is the reason why Joao and Christo struggle to get minutes - not for any different reasons because they are both fantastic players, fantastic guys who work well.

"The reason why is only because most of the games I decide to play with one attacking midfielder in terms of balance. This is the reason why."

What Maresca first said about Felix...

When Felix returned to Chelsea in August 2024, Maresca was keen on Felix's versatility. The Italian said: "He’s a talent. The club already knows him from two years ago. The good thing about Joao is he can play different positions, inside, as a nine, outside."