Christian Pulisic looks set to depart Chelsea this summer and he could be heading to Atletico Madrid with Joao Felix going the other way.
Chelsea forward Christian Pulisic was linked with a loan move to Galatasaray but that move will not be coming to fruition with the Turkish transfer window closing last Sunday.
According to football.london, “Pulisic has been linked with a move to Atletico Madrid as the Chelsea winger’s future continues to be the subject of intense speculation.
“The 24-year-old has a season-and-a-half left on his Chelsea deal and Graham Potter’s side could sell him for a decent price as they look to bring money in after a heavy spend in the two windows since Todd Boehly took over at Stamford Bridge.”
Felix could be heading to Chelsea permanently in the summer with Relevo reporting that Boehly “is already thinking of building the team of the future around him. A figure of just over €100 million could be sufficient.”
So it could be that Pulisic plus a transfer fee could be enough to complete the deal. Chelsea gets Felix on a permanent basis and Atletico gets a like-for-like replacement.
Would this be a good move for Pulisic?
Since his move to Chelsea for £15.6 million from Borussia Dortmund, Pulisic has not lived up to expectations. However, his time at the club has by no means been a complete flop.
In the Premier League for the Blues, he has scored 20 goals and created 11 assists in 90 appearances. He also scored in the 2020 FA Cup final, although his side did go on to lose to Arsenal that day.
Pulisic did win the Champions League and the Club World Cup with Chelsea, so he has filled his trophy cabinet.
The American has been linked with Manchester United, Arsenal and Newcastle but Chelsea would not like to sell him to a domestic rival. He has also been linked with a move to Inter and Milan in Serie A. Although, his style of play may not be suited to Italy as he is an out-and-out winger, rather than a wing-back.
Moving to Spain with Atletico would be his best bet. With the departure of Felix, Diego Simeone’s side has space for him. He will also have the opportunity to play in another top European league, having already played in Germany and England.
Is the transfer right for Felix?
For Felix, at Chelsea, it is still very early days. He impressed on his debut against Fulham but unfortunately got sent off. His return has started well with a goal against West Ham last weekend.
Graham Potter’s side is struggling in the league this year, as they are currently 10th and in danger of missing out on European football next season.
They have spent a lot of money and with signings like Enzo Fernandez, they are focusing on signings that will be at the club long-term. The addition of Felix on a permanent basis would be another great addition to their side if he continues to impress.