Chelsea and Atlético are now getting closer to final agreement for João Félix and Conor Gallagher, almost there! 🔀✨ Positive round of talks today… as João Félix says yes to contract terms as he’s ready, open to return to Chelsea.

Chelsea Football Club is reportedly nearing a permanent deal with Atletico Madrid for the acquisition of Portuguese forward Joao Felix. According to reports from Spain, negotiations between the two clubs are progressing after a summer filled with complex discussions.

This summer, Chelsea has been in talks with Atletico Madrid concerning not only Felix but also potential deals for players like Samu Omorodion and Conor Gallagher. However, neither of these negotiations has yet to yield results. Atletico’s manager, Diego Simeone, has shown a strong interest in bringing Gallagher to Madrid, but the discussions reached an impasse, forcing the midfielder to return to England. Gallagher has since been relegated to training with Chelsea’s under-23 squad, alongside Trevoh Chalobah, as the club continues to seek a resolution for his situation.

Despite the stalled talks regarding other players, Chelsea and Atletico Madrid have maintained ongoing discussions about Joao Felix. Previously, Chelsea made an initial offer of £38 million for the Portuguese star, which was rejected by Atletico. However, Chelsea responded with an improved bid of €46 million (£39.2 million) plus €5 million (£4.2 million) in potential bonuses. This latest offer is reportedly more appealing to Atletico’s management, bringing the two clubs closer to finalizing the transfer.

Journalist Ruben Uria, cited by Get Football News Spain, stated that “Atletico de Madrid and Chelsea are close to closing the sale of the Portuguese striker.” Felix’s versatility on the field—capable of playing as a center-forward, false nine, or left-winger—makes him a valuable asset for Chelsea, who are looking to bolster their squad ahead of the new season.

Felix had already spent the latter half of the 2022/23 season on loan at Stamford Bridge, where he made 20 appearances and scored four goals. Once considered one of Europe’s most promising young talents, Felix aims to fully realize his potential if he secures a permanent move to the Premier League this time.

In addition to Felix, Chelsea is still active in the transfer market, with Napoli’s star striker Victor Osimhen reportedly being a primary target. Meanwhile, the club is also focusing on offloading players who do not fit into their future plans. Conor Gallagher is one such player, but others, including Trevoh Chalobah and Noni Madueke, are also candidates for departure. Additionally, young midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu has been sent out on loan to Southampton.

With a squad of 43 players, the largest in the Premier League, Chelsea’s new manager, Enzo Maresca, recognizes the urgent need to streamline the team. This summer is expected to see significant player movements at the club, with Felix’s deal hopefully concluded soon.

Chelsea’s immediate challenge lies in their upcoming match against Premier League champions Manchester City, a crucial test for Maresca as he seeks to make his mark as the new manager.