Potential Chelsea Players for Permanent Felix Transfer Deal with Atletico Madrid
Chelsea supporters have been delighted with Joao Felix’s loan spell from Atletico Madrid. Felix has made a remarkable start to his loan stint at Chelsea, impressing with a man-of-the-match performance against West Ham after his debut red card against Fulham. If he continues to perform at this level, Graham Potter may look to make the move permanent over the summer, although there is no option to buy in his contract. Due to potential financial fair play regulations, Chelsea may need to limit their summer spending and might include one of their current players to reduce Felix’s cost, with Atletico hoping to recoup most of the £113 million they invested in him. The following are five potential players Chelsea could offer in the swap deal.
The Gabon captain may be the most logical option, as he has fallen out of favor under Potter and seems to have no future at Stamford Bridge. He was previously linked with Atletico Madrid, but the move was not feasible because he had already played for two clubs this season. The La Liga side may revisit the deal in the summer, and both clubs could benefit. However, the swap may depend on interest from other teams, such as MLS side LAFC.
Lukaku is even further from the Chelsea first team, having spent the season on loan at Inter Milan. It remains unclear whether Inter will make the move permanent in the summer, given his price tag and injury issues. He may return to London, and Atletico manager Diego Simeone may be interested, as he tends to prefer having a target man up front, and Lukaku would fit the bill. If he holds even half of his £97.5 million value, he would significantly reduce Felix’s cost.
Kovacic has been a regular player for Chelsea this season, but his playing time may decrease upon his return from injury with the arrival of Enzo Fernandez. Reports suggest Chelsea may be open to letting him go in the summer, and he could be an ideal option for Atletico. Kovacic already has experience in Madrid, having spent four years at Real Madrid, and his hardworking mentality would suit Simeone’s side.
Ziyech was set to leave Chelsea in January, but his move to PSG failed due to a technical error on deadline day. He is expected to move in the summer, given the competition in the wide positions. If PSG decides against reviving their interest, Atletico may opt for Ziyech, as he would bring more creativity to the team.
Senegal captain Koulibaly has lost his starting spot to Benoit Badiashile and is unlikely to regain it anytime soon. Reports suggest that Potter may be willing to let him go in the summer, just a year after his arrival. Although he may not be as exciting as other attacking options, Koulibaly’s experience would be a valuable asset in Simeone’s backline, especially if he can regain his top form.
