Final stages of Joao Felix permanent transfer to Atletico Madrid in progress 

Chelsea are presently considered “close” to finalizing the return of Joao Felix to Stamford Bridge after reaching the final stages of a deal with Atletico Madrid.

Felix scored four times in 20 appearances for the Blues during half a season on loan in 2023. He has been the club’s most likely forward acquisition since a deal for Samu Omorodion collapsed.

Fabrizio Romano reports that “talks are at final stages” for Felix to become a Chelsea player for the second time. A “verbal agreement” with Atletico has almost been reached, with only the “final details” of the deal’s structure still left to be resolved.

This time, The Athletic has confirmed that the deal is permanent. He adds that personal terms have been agreed upon for a six-year period ending in 2030. This includes an option for an additional season ending in the summer of 2031. Recently, reports had surfaced of a cost of approximately £40 million plus add-ons.

Felix has a contract with Atletico until 2029, however he hasn’t participated in a competitive game for the team in 19 months. 2019 saw his infamous transfer to Madrid as Atletico activated a €126 million (£113 million) release clause.

Nine days later, the then-teenager received the number seven shirt of the club, which belonged to Antoine Griezmann until his high-profile move to Barcelona. This time last year, Felix himself ended up moving to Barca on loan from Atletico. This is where he went on to make 44 appearances in all competitions, scoring 10 goals and dishing out six assists.

He typically played from the left flank and started less than half of Barca’s La Liga games.  Felix is expected to join Chelsea as their eighth recruit of the busy summer.