Renato Veiga in action for Portugal 2025

Atlético Madrid make direct contact for Renato Veiga — But he wasn’t their first choice

John William Last updated: Jul 20, 2025, 10:04 am
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Image: IMAGO / Buzzi

Renato Veiga transfer talks are heating up as Atlético Madrid eye a deal for the versatile Chelsea defender — but the Blues are standing firm on a €40m valuation.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Atlético have now entered direct negotiations with Veiga’s representatives after failing to reach terms with Tottenham for Cristian Romero. While Veiga wasn’t their first choice, he’s now a priority target — and the 21-year-old is said to be keen on the switch to La Liga.

Why Chelsea Are Willing to Sell Veiga — Despite Lacking Depth

Chelsea fans might be surprised the club are even considering letting Veiga go. The left-sided defender impressed during his loan spell at Juventus last season and has featured for Portugal at senior level.

However, the Blues are open to selling the former FC Basel man due to his strong market value. They bought him for €14m last summer, meaning any sale close to €40m would represent a significant profit — especially as Chelsea look to comply with Financial Fair Play rules ahead of the 2025/26 season.

“Veiga has all the tools to thrive in a high-line system — ball-carrying, recovery pace, and defensive intelligence.” — European scout speaking to Fabrizio Romano

How Veiga Fits Simeone’s System

Veiga offers flexibility — having played as a centre-back, full-back, and defensive midfielder. His technical ability, calmness under pressure, and strong positional awareness make him a natural fit for Diego Simeone’s structured defensive unit.

At Atlético, Veiga could operate as a left-sided centre-back in a back three or even fill in at left wing-back depending on Simeone’s setup.

Renato Veiga Stats (2024/25, All Competitions)

Club Appearances Goals Assists Tackles per 90 Pass Accuracy
Juventus (loan) 25 2 3 2.1 87.3%
Chelsea 4 0 0 1.8 85.0%

Analyst Verdict: Right Player, Right Price?

Veiga is still raw, but the upside is huge. For a player who’s only 21, his maturity and versatility have made him a standout in both Serie A and international duty. Atlético may see him as a long-term replacement for Mario Hermoso, and if Chelsea are holding out for €40m, that may be a bargain in the years to come.

But Chelsea’s defensive depth is already under question. Letting Veiga go could prove risky unless a new left-back is lined up before the season starts.

Key Insights

  • Atlético Madrid have made direct contact for Renato Veiga
  • Chelsea want at least €40m for the 21-year-old defender
  • Veiga is keen on the move to La Liga
  • Juventus spell and Portugal caps have boosted his stock
  • Sale would deliver strong profit on Chelsea’s €14m investment

What’s next for Chelsea and Veiga

Atlético Madrid are expected to return with an improved bid after establishing direct contact with the player’s camp. Veiga remains interested in the move, and if Chelsea maintain their €40m stance, the next few days could be decisive. With FFP constraints and squad planning both in play, this could be one of Chelsea’s more strategic sales of the summer window.


Should Chelsea hold out for €40m — or keep Veiga and invest elsewhere?

1 Comment (last comment by Adem)

First read message

Adem

By Adem 20 Jul 2025 10:26

Unbeleiveable business if we get 40M for him!

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