Chelsea and Atletico Complete Swap: Felix for Gallagher

Joao Felix (left) and Conor Gallagher were teammates during Felix's loan spell at Chelsea in 2023.

Chelsea secured Portugal forward Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid for approximately £45 million. In return, England midfielder Conor Gallagher moved to Atletico for around £33 million. Felix, 24, returns to Stamford Bridge for a second stint after scoring four goals in 20 appearances during his previous loan spell in 2023.

He signed a seven-year contract with Chelsea and expressed excitement about rejoining the club, noting the comfort of familiar faces. Gallagher, who joined Chelsea at age six and made 90 appearances with 10 goals, signed a five-year deal with Atletico.

Chelsea decided to sell him now rather than risk losing him for free next summer as his contract neared its end. On Instagram, Gallagher thanked Chelsea fans and reflected on his time with the club including his role as captain. Chelsea delayed the deal due to the collapse of negotiations for Atletico striker Samu Omorodion.

Gallagher’s move to Spain stalled for five days, during which he briefly stayed in Madrid before returning to London. Despite a few loan spells at Charlton, Swansea, West Brom and Crystal Palace, Gallagher secured his place in Chelsea’s first team starting from the 2022-23 season.

He also earned 18 caps for England and participated in the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2024.

Analysis by Nizaar Kinsella, BBC Sport
Gallagher’s departure may dishearten some fans, especially those who protested his exit. However, Chelsea handled the situation gracefully, avoiding a transfer within the Premier League and creating a heartfelt farewell video that celebrated Gallagher’s time at the club. The transfer saga concluded positively with Gallagher likely to thrive in Diego Simeone’s high-energy style at Atletico Madrid.

Cataleya