Chelsea Welcomes Joao Felix with Perfect Squad Number After Atletico Madrid Transfer

Chelsea is on the verge of securing a permanent deal for Portugal international Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid, marking a significant move in the summer transfer window. After a successful loan spell at Stamford Bridge during the second half of the 2022/23 season, where Felix netted four goals in 20 appearances, the Blues have reached an agreement to bring the forward back to London on a full-time basis.

Felix, who originally joined Atletico Madrid in 2019 for a record €126 million (£107 million) from Benfica, is expected to sign a six-year contract with Chelsea, with an option for a further 12-month extension. This transfer will conclude Felix's five-year tenure with the La Liga club, where he became a key player but also experienced loan spells at Chelsea and, most recently, Barcelona.

One of the intriguing aspects of Felix's potential return to Chelsea is the possibility of him reclaiming his preferred No.7 shirt, a number he wore with distinction at Atletico Madrid. However, the No.7 shirt at Chelsea is currently occupied by Raheem Sterling. With Sterling's future at the club under scrutiny following a recent exclusion from the matchday squad, there's speculation that Felix could inherit the number if circumstances align.

During his loan at Chelsea, Felix donned the No.11 shirt, and with his permanent move looming, fans are eagerly anticipating how the squad numbers will play out. Should Sterling remain at the club, Felix may have to settle for an alternative number or negotiate a swap.

As the final details of the transfer are ironed out, Chelsea supporters are hopeful that Felix’s arrival will bolster the squad and add firepower to their attacking options, making him a key figure at Stamford Bridge in the seasons to come.