Chelsea and Atletico Madrid are locked in “tense” negotiations for Conor Gallagher as Joao Felix makes his decision on Stamford Bridge move.
The discussions between Chelsea and Atletico Madrid initially centred around a deal that would see both Gallagher and Samu Omorodion switch clubs. However, the agreement regarding Omorodion fell through at the last minute, complicating the negotiations and putting Gallagher’s move to the Spanish capital on hold. Despite this setback, the talks between the two clubs have not collapsed, and there is still cautious optimism that a deal can be reached, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Felix has already indicated his willingness to return to Chelsea, where he had been on loan earlier in his career. This has added a layer of urgency to the negotiations, with Atletico Madrid eager to finalise the deal as soon as possible as the Spanish club is keen to have Gallagher join their squad, and they are pushing Chelsea to meet their demands to ensure the transfer goes through.
The Rojiblancos have set a loose deadline to finalise the transfer, as they aim to present Gallagher alongside their other summer signings during a planned presentation next Wednesday. Atletico Madrid have been pushing Chelsea to increase their offer for Felix, with the latest proposal reportedly standing at £40 million (€46 million), along with an increase in variables. However, Chelsea has yet to submit a firm offer that meets Atletico’s expectations.
As the weekend approaches, it is expected that negotiations will intensify, with both clubs eager to reach a resolution. Should a deal be reached, it would pave the way for Gallagher’s move to Madrid, allowing Atletico to complete their summer transfer business on a high note, with Felix moving in the opposite direction.
