Official: Chelsea youngster Nathan returns home to Brazil on loan

In a half-season spell at Belenenses last term, Chelsea loanee Nathan did well for the Primeira Liga outfit. He even became one of their primary transfer targets for the summer. However, three months had passed, and no advances were made. Nathan meanwhile returned to Cobham where he had been training with the loan group.

Now, following rumors last week, he’s heading back out on loan, and going all the way back home to Brazil. He’s joined Brazilian top division side Atlético Mineiro.

Initial reports were unclear how long the loan would last — the Brazilian season runs from late January until early December, unlike most European leagues that are on a fall-spring schedule — but Nathan is set to stay until at least next June, which is ideal timing for Chelsea or any European aspirations but a bit odd in terms of the Brazilian league schedule.

Atlético were actually interested in Nathan back in January, but he chose to join Belenenses instead. Six months later, thanks in part to his good relationship with their football director Alexandre Gallo, who worked with him in the Brazil U17 and U20 national squads, Nathan is set to try his luck in Brazil.

Atlético are currently challenging for the top spots in the Série A table, so hopefully Nathan gets some quality playing time under his belt.