Chelsea Secure Joao Felix in Swap Deal as Conor Gallagher Heads to Atletico Madrid

 


Chelsea Secure Joao Felix in Swap Deal as Conor Gallagher Heads to Atletico Madrid

In a significant move that could shape both clubs' seasons, Chelsea have reached an agreement with Atletico Madrid for the return of forward Joao Felix, with midfielder Conor Gallagher set to head in the opposite direction. The swap deal, which has been agreed in principle, will see Felix sign a six-year contract at Stamford Bridge, with an option for an additional season.

Although the exact fee for the 24-year-old Portugal international remains undisclosed, the transfer will bring him back to West London following a brief but promising loan spell in 2023, where he scored four goals in 20 appearances. Felix’s previous stint at Chelsea was marked by flashes of brilliance, but his return comes with higher expectations as the club continues to rebuild under Mauricio Pochettino.

Gallagher, meanwhile, is on the verge of completing a move to the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium, where he was recently pictured as his transfer saga neared its conclusion. The England international, who had been in limbo after Chelsea's talks to sign striker Samu Omorodion broke down, was forced to train alone at Cobham while awaiting the green light for his £33 million transfer.

The delay in Gallagher’s move was largely due to Atletico needing to raise funds, and Chelsea’s pursuit of Omorodion initially stalled. However, with Felix now set for a permanent switch to Stamford Bridge, Gallagher’s transfer has finally gained momentum. The 24-year-old will sign a five-year deal with Atletico, where he is expected to become a key part of Diego Simeone’s midfield setup.

Felix’s arrival marks a significant coup for Chelsea as they look to add creative spark and goal-scoring ability to their attack. The deal is still subject to a medical, but all signs point toward the Portuguese star making a quick return to the Premier League.

Chelsea’s focus now shifts to offloading players ahead of the August 30 transfer deadline, while their pursuit of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen remains active. The Italian side, in turn, continues its pursuit of Romelu Lukaku, who remains surplus to requirements at Chelsea. Napoli have reportedly made a second loan offer with a £25.5 million obligation to buy, but it falls short of Chelsea’s valuation, which is closer to £35 million.

With the clock ticking toward deadline day, both Chelsea and Atletico Madrid are poised to finalize deals that could have far-reaching consequences for their respective campaigns.