Atletico Madrid is reportedly keeping a close eye on Chelsea defender, Renato Veiga, who is expected to leave the club during this summer transfer window. The Spanish giant has shown interest in the 21-year-old versatile defender as they continue to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.
The transfer market has been bustling with activity, and Chelsea has already made significant moves. They have brought in three new players - Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens and Joao Pedro - as they seek to bolster their ranks ahead of the next season. However, their search for a reliable centre-back continues.
On the flip side, some players have moved from Stamford Bridge to other clubs. Kepa Arrizabalaga and Noni Madueke have joined city rivals Arsenal while Djordje Petrovic and Mathis Amougou have found new homes at Bournemouth and Strasbourg respectively.
Potential departure
Renato Veiga seems set to join this list of departures soon. Florian Plettenberg recently reported that Atletico Madrid has shortlisted Veiga as a potential recruit. Although there are more options available for Atletico Madrid, they are closely monitoring Veiga’s situation.
Veiga could potentially leave Chelsea if an appropriate offer comes through with his transfer valuation standing at €30–35 million. His contract runs until 2031 but several enquiries about his availability suggest that he might be on his way out sooner than expected. Veiga joined Chelsea from FC Basel just last year (2024) for a fee of around £12 million. He featured in 18 matches for the Blues before being loaned out to Juventus where he secured a starting spot in their lineup.
However, it appears that he does not fit into the future plans of Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca. As a result, the club is actively looking to find a new home for the Portuguese international.
Implications for Chelsea's defence
The potential departure of Veiga could help fund Chelsea’s pursuit of a new centre-back. However, Veiga isn’t the only defender expected to leave. Axel Disasi and possibly Trevoh Chalobah are also rumoured to be on their way out this summer.
Given these developments, it seems likely that Chelsea will have a significantly different backline next season. This reshuffling could potentially bring about fresh dynamics and strategies as they gear up for another challenging season ahead.
While Atletico Madrid's interest in Renato Veiga adds an interesting twist to this summer's transfer saga, it remains to be seen where he will end up when the window closes.
