Joao Felix, the Chelsea playmaker, has requested to leave Stamford Bridge before the January transfer window closes. Frustrated by his limited playing time, Felix is eager to depart the Premier League club, according to The Transfers Podcast.

Chelsea is now exploring possible options in light of Felix’s decision.

The Portugal international was signed permanently from Atletico Madrid last summer, but his time at Chelsea has been challenging. Since committing to a seven-year deal, Felix has struggled to secure consistent minutes under manager Enzo Maresca.

The 25-year-old has started just three Premier League matches this season and finds himself behind players like Nicolas Jackson, Noni Madueke, Christopher Nkunku, and Neto in Maresca’s pecking order.

Felix has been linked with a potential move to Premier League rivals, Aston Villa.