Joao Felix Joins Chelsea On A Permanent Basis After Loan Spell

Chelsea have confirmed the permanent signing of Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid. The winger, who was on loan at Chelsea for the latter half of the 2022-23 season, has committed to a six-year contract with an option for an additional year. The transfer fee is approximately £45 million.

During his six-month loan spell in 2023, Joao Felix made 16 Premier League appearances for Chelsea, scoring four goals. This made him the club's third-highest scorer in the league that season. The 24-year-old initially joined Atletico Madrid from Benfica in 2019, where he netted 34 goals in 131 matches across all competitions.

Last season, Felix was loaned to Barcelona, where he scored seven goals in LaLiga. Despite slightly underperforming his expected goals of 8.76, he also contributed three assists during his time with the Blaugrana.

"I'm really happy to be back at Chelsea and I can't wait to get started," Joao Felix told Chelsea's website. "I can see some familiar faces from the last time I was here, which is always nice. 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."

The negotiations between Chelsea and Atletico Madrid began after a deal to sign Samu Omorodion fell through. This situation facilitated Conor Gallagher's move in the opposite direction, which was also confirmed on Wednesday.

Chelsea's Active Transfer Window

Joao Felix becomes Chelsea's tenth signing of this transfer window. Other new additions include Tosin Adarabioyo, Omari Kellyman, Filip Jorgensen, Marc Guiu, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Renato Veiga, Caleb Wiley, Aaron Anselmino and Pedro Neto.

Chelsea expressed their excitement about Felix's return on social media: "Chelsea is where he belongs. We are delighted to announce the signing of Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid." pic.twitter.com/k8jF2PNSgV

Felix’s return marks a significant addition to Chelsea’s squad as they prepare for the upcoming season. His previous stint at Stamford Bridge left a positive impression on both fans and management alike.

The club looks forward to seeing how Felix will contribute moving forward as they aim for success in domestic and international competitions.