Benfica are [said to be](https://weaintgotnohistory.sbnation.com/chelsea-fc-transfer-rumours-news/2025/6/4/24442597/benfica-stepping-up-efforts-to-bring-joao-felix-home-temporarily-reports) interested in bringing back João Félix, preferably before the start of the Club World Cup, but in an entirely expected development, they are struggling to meet the financial demands of this proposition — even though both player and club are pushing hard for the reunion (and Chelsea are more than willing to make it happen, for a reasonable price).
[According to A Bola](https://www.abola.pt/futebol/noticias/benfica-toda-a-verdade-sobre-joao-felix-2025060619514132888), Benfica initially asked for a loan, but Chelsea are adamant about authorizing only a permanent move. We have asked for €30m to make that happen. Benfica are willing to go as high as €25m, so the gap in valuation is certainly not huge — though €25m would be the third highest transfer fee paid in Benfica history, so it’s already a considerable investment for them.
However, the bigger hindrance is the salary. Félix is rumored to be earning around €8m per year, which is twice as much as Benfica’s wage structure allows. So if he truly wants this reunion to happen, he will have to take a significant pay cut.