Chelsea sent scouts to watch Joao Felix, Bruno Fernandes and Ruben Dias in Wednesday’s Lisbon derby as they prepare for life without Eden Hazard, according to reports.
Portuguese news outlet Jogo claim the Blues are ramping up their search of Hazard’s replacement – with club representatives in attendance to watch the Lisbon derby on Wednesday – won by Benfica 2-1.
Benfica recently slapped a staggering £105m price tag on the 19-year-old Felix, who has impressed in his breakthrough season.
Felix signed a new long-term contract with the Lisbon club back in November, with the bumper release clause stipulated in his latest deal – which runs out in 2023.
Chelsea are just one of the clubs monitoring his situation, with a host of teams across Europe keeping tabs on the highly-rated youngster.
Hazard looks increasingly likely to leave Stamford Bridge in the summer, with Real Madrid willing to splash £100m on their primary transfer target.
The 28-year-old Belgian has fuelled speculation again this week by saying he has “made a decision” regarding his future.
Blues coach Maurizio Sarri insists he wants the forward to stay, but says the decision ultimately lies in his hands.
Felix’s team-mate Dias, as well as Sporting’s Fernandes – who scored a consolation goal for the Lions in the derby game – are also reportedly on Sarri’s radar.
It is Felix who is at the top of the Blues’ wishlist, though, when it comes to the trio.
He has scored seven goals this season, including five in his last seven appearances.
Felix became the youngest player to net in a Lisbon derby when he got on the score sheet against Sporting in August.
Benfica president Luis Filipe Vieira has warned any interested parties they will have to cough up the £105m price tag required if they want to land Felix.