Renato Veiga’s Chelsea exit stalls as Atletico complete Hancko deal | OneFootball

Chelsea’s proposed deal to sell Renato Veiga to Atletico Madrid has fallen through at the last minute.

According to AS, the Spanish giants have ditched a move for the Portuguese defender after completing a move to sign David Hancko from Feyenoord.

Talks over a deal to send the promising Portugal international to the Spanish capital had advanced, and personal terms were reportedly agreed.

It seemed only a matter of time before the Blues would bank around €40 million (£35m) for a player they signed for €14m (£12m) last summer.

However, Atletico’s plans took an unexpected turn. They shifted their focus and announced the signing of Hancko from Feyenoord.

The Slovakian defender joined in a €30m (£25m) deal that includes add-ons, which was significantly lower than what Chelsea were demanding for Veiga.

Hancko was expected to join Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr, but that deal collapsed, paving the way for Atletico to swoop in.

Their longstanding interest in the Feyenoord man resurfaced, and Veiga was no longer the priority.

Atletico’s U-turn is a massive blow to Chelsea. They are looking to trim their bloated squad ahead of the new season.

Veiga is one of the many players on the chopping block, and the club was hoping to bank a significant profit from his sale.

They could still get their wish later in the summer. Atletico still hold an interest in Veiga but will only act if they sell a centre-back.

Chelsea need to sell Veiga to make space for Ajax talent Jorrel Hato. The Blues are currently locked in talks to sign the highly rated Netherlands international.

The 19-year-old has agreed personal terms with Chelsea and has made it clear to Ajax that he wants to move to Stamford Bridge.