Blues bag Felix as fan fave Gallagher heads for Atletico

Joao Felix has completed a return to Chelsea, rejoining the Blues on a permanent transfer in a deal that could rise in excess of £46m.

- MICHAEL JONES

The 24-year-old spent six months on loan at Stamford Bridge in the 2022-23 season and scored four times in 20 appearances. He has signed a seven-year contract.

His return comes after a long-running transfer saga that saw Chelsea negotiate a deal to send midfielder Conor Gallagher in the opposite direction with a move to Atletico Madrid. The 24year-old, who came through the youth ranks at Stamford Bridge, has signed a five-year contract with the Spanish side after the clubs agreed a reported £33.7m fee.

Gallagher’s sale was done, in part, as a necessity as Chelsea look to adhere to the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules. As a homegrown player, the proceeds from his sale will be recorded as pure profit for the Blues.

The midfielder became a regular in the Chelsea side over the past two seasons after loan spells at Charlton, Swansea, West Brom and Crystal Palace. He made 95 appearances and scored 10 goals. He was a popular player with the fans who have been vocal in their displeasure at Chelsea’s ongoing decision to sell off their academy talents.