Chelsea player 'asked' for transfer as Real Madrid enter race to sign Premier League defender

Chelsea are now preparing for a double-header with Brighton, first taking on the Seagulls in the FA Cup this weekend before having a rematch of sorts in the Premier League the following week. The Blues are now back in the top four, but all attention for now will be on reaching the fifth round and keeping another avenue to silverware alive.

Enzo Maresca did not get his attacking signing in the winter window, but he and his staff now know what they have to work with between now and the end of the season. Here we round up all the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding Stamford Bridge.

Felix ‘asked’ for move and a permanent deal could be possible

Chelsea loaned out Joao Felix on deadline day, allowing the Portugal midfielder to leave just months after signing him on a big money deal, with AC Milan taking advantage to strike a deal.

Speaking about the move to GiveMeSport, Fabrizio Romano claimed it was Felix who requested the move. He wrote: “First of all, it’s important to clarify that Joao Felix left Chelsea because he personally asked for a new opportunity. Joao was almost a new Aston Villa player last summer when Chelsea entered the race and included him in talks for Conor Gallagher with Atletico. He didn’t play as much as he wanted this season and Joao and his agent Jorge Mendes felt a move was needed to revive his career and find more game time from now to June.

“AC Milan accepted all conditions of the loan over £5m and Sergio Conceicao called Felix several times to get the green light and make him feel important for the Rossoneri’s project, as that was one more crucial factor to make this move happen.”

Meanwhile, Milan chief Geoffrey Moncada has opened the door to a permanent deal if things go well in Felix, even if there is no option to buy built into the loan. Moncada said: “Keeping João Félix here? It will depend on João and on us. There are always chances, even without a buy option clause.” Felix scored on his Milan debut.

Huijsen battle

Chelsea may have to battle Real Madrid for the signing of AFC Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen if they do indeed push for a deal. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Blues are interested in the 19-year-old, and reports in Spain now say Real Madrid are interest.

The Blues have been forced to realise their lack of depth at centre-back this season after losing Wesley Fofana to injury, while Real Madrid need to plan long-term beyond David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger. Huijsen bas already racked up 18 league appearances for the Cherries, and he looks to be a top defensive talent.

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