Chelsea have completed the signing of Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid, while Conor Gallagher has moved in the opposite direction.
Felix joined the Blues on a seven-year contract at Stamford Bridge after the Portugal international agreed to pay a £42 million fixed fee with a further £4.3 million.
After spending six months on loan during the second half of the 2022–2023 season, when he scored four goals in 16 Premier League games, the 24-year-old is back at Chelsea on a permanent basis.
Felix played 44 games while on loan at Barcelona during the previous season, where he scored 10 goals.
“I’m really happy to be back at Chelsea and I can’t wait to get started. I can see some familiar faces from the last time I was here, which is always nice,” Felix said.
“I loved my time here before and I told my friends and family that I’d love to return to the Premier League one day. To do that with Chelsea is a great feeling and I’m excited to be back.”
Speaking in a press conference, Maresca added: “He’s a good player and the club already knows him from two years ago. The good thing about Joao is he can play different positions with us – inside, as a No 9 and outside.”
After Tosin Adarabioyo, Omari Kellyman, Marc Guiu, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Renato Veiga, Caleb Wiley, Aaron Anselmino, Filip Jorgensen, and Pedro Neto, the former Benfica player becomes Chelsea’s tenth summer addition.
With Felix’s arrival, Chelsea’s summer spending has reached £202.6 million, making them the highest spending team in the Premier League.
However, the west London club’s spending may not be done just yet, as it is believed that after the Felix deal is finalised, they will attempt to acquire a new striker during this transfer window.
Victor Osimhen of Napoli has been a summer transfer target for Chelsea, but they are not willing to buy him long-term at this time.
Gallagher’s move to Atletico Madrid was made possible by Felix’s signing, and it was made official on Wednesday morning.
After Chelsea’s attempt to recruit Atletico Madrid striker Samu Omorodion fell through, Gallagher’s transfer appeared to be on hold; however, it was resurrected when the Blues decided to sign Felix.
Gallagher’s handling of the situation during his five days in Madrid delighted Atletico, who were even more anxious to sign him because it strengthened their team roster.
The England player was photographed in the Wanda Metropolitano by the club after passing a physical and agreeing to a five-year contract to join Atletico while in Madrid, but he had to return.
However, the 24-year-old has now formally signed a contract with Atletico Madrid through 2029, making him an official player.
“To everyone at Chelsea, thank you for making my dreams come true,” Gallagher said in a video message on Instagram
“It’s been an absolute honour every time I put on the shirt, and it was a dream come true to captain the team on many occasions. I loved every moment. These memories will last forever.
“I appreciate all the love and support from the fans. Hearing the chant of my name at the Bridge is a special feeling, and the banner you displayed meant the world to me. Thank you for everything.
“I wish the club all the best for the future, and I hope to see you all soon at Stamford Bridge!”
