Atletico Madrid and Chelsea are currently in talks over Portuguese striker Joao Felix as the two clubs attempt to salvage a deal involving Conor Gallagher and stabilize relations between the clubs.
Los Rojiblancos were hugely frustrated by the collapse of Samu Omorodion’s €40 million transfer to Chelsea after the Blues reportedly changed terms at the last minute. Chelsea are now trying to land Felix but talks are said to be strained.
💣🚨 BREAKING NEWS: Chelsea have asked Conor Gallagher to return to London on Tuesday and are arranging his flight.
Subject to the agreement of all parties, Gallagher’s move to Atlético Madrid remains open following completion of the medical examination.
Chelsea looks at each deal individually, including João … pic.twitter.com/9LoJ7XFbft
— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) 12 August 2024
Agent Jorge Mendes is also in London negotiating with clubs, but it seems there is more work ahead for him. Record in Portugal, as quoted by Diario AS, says Atletico rejected an offer of €35m plus €35m later in a mandatory buyout deal, although Los Colchoneros deny having received any formal offers.
Atletico have been trying to offload Felix for two summers now and, while they obviously need to reach minimum terms, it would be a surprise if they didn’t take the chance. The 24-year-old is one of the highest-paid players at the Metropolitano, if not the highest-paid, and he still has five years left on his contract. Felix’s value has plummeted over the past two seasons after being benched first by Chelsea and then Barcelona.
