CONFIRMED: Chelsea in talks with £86m star’s agent – he wants to join in January

Chelsea have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix after opening contact with his agent Jorge Mendes.

It was previously reported that the 23-year-old is the keen on leaving the La Liga side when the January transfer window opens after asking his agent to find him a new club.

Chelsea are said to be in the transfer market for a new winger as a possible replacement for Hakim Ziyech and Christian Pulisic who are both linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge over lack of playing time.

The Blues will try and sign the Portuguese star in January but he won’t come as Atletico Madrid are demanding for £100 million for the former Benfica man.

However, according to Fabrizio Romano, Felix wants to leave Wanda Metropolitano and the Spanish club are also to selling him if they receive the right offer.

“His agent, Jorge Mendes, is exploring possibilities with clubs,” the Italian journalist said on his YouTube channel.

“For the moment, there are still negotiations ongoing with Atletico, but his agent is trying to find a solution.

“With [Paris Saint-Germain], the relationship is great, with Chelsea and Manchester United, there are always conversations, so it’s normal now to explore the market.”