Chelsea, Atlético Madrid Near Talks for Veiga Transfer

Atlético Madrid is actively pursuing Chelsea defender Renato Veiga but has temporarily paused the transfer following their agreement to sign Slovakian centre-back Dávid Hancko from Feyenoord. While Chelsea is demanding a fee around €40 million, negotiations between the clubs continue with optimism due to their strong relationship, though the valuation gap remains. Veiga, a versatile 21-year-old who prefers playing centre-back, was loaned to Juventus earlier this year after limited opportunities at Chelsea. Atlético has been reinforcing their squad with several new signings including Marc Pubill, Matteo Ruggeri, Álex Baena, Thiago Almada, and Johnny Cardoso, while also agreeing to sell Rodrigo de Paul to Inter Miami. Chelsea considers Veiga's sale a priority this summer but faces potential late competition from other Premier League clubs interested in the player. The transfer saga highlights Atlético's strategic rebuilding under Diego Simeone, balancing incoming talents and departures ahead of the new season.