Conor Gallagher is reportedly prepared to do whatever it takes to leave Chelsea for Atletico Madrid this summer. The 24-year-old has been the subject of intense transfer speculation, with the London club seemingly willing to sell to help them comply with profit and sustainability rules.
The saga played a pivotal role in the departure of Mauricio Pochettino at the end of the 2023/24 campaign, with the ex-manager said to be against any potential sale.
But the England international is out of contract in 2025, leaving club bosses needing to make an imminent decision on the midfielder or risk losing him on a free transfer in 12 months’ time.
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Tottenham and Liverpool have been among the clubs linked with the player. But according to Tutto Mercato Web in Italy, the La Liga club are now favourites for his signature, with Gallagher said to be prepared to ‘do everything’ to head to Spain.
And ex-Atletico defender Kieran Trippier appears to be playing a pivotal role in swaying Gallagher’s intentions. Diario AS have reported that the Newcastle full-back has given Gallagher the lowdown on life in Madrid, and has also recommended working under manager Diego Simeone.
Trippier, 33, spent two-and-a-half-years in the Spanish capital, helping them to the 2020/21 La Liga title. He cited his desire to remain in the international fold as his reason for returning to England in January 2022.
The transfer saga around the £40million-rated Gallagher has been put on hold this summer by England going all the way to the final in Euro 2024. Under FA regulations, clubs were not allowed to approach members of Gareth Southgate’s squad while they were on duty in Germany.
But during the tournament, new Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca sealed the signing of Kieran Dewsbury-Hall from Leicester. Purchasing another midfielder was perceived as a signal that the club were willing to release Gallagher.
After being sent out on four separate loan spells, Gallagher has made 95 appearances for the Blues in the past two seasons. He also wore the captain’s armband under Pochettino last season, but his status as an academy product has seemingly affected his standing within the club.
Being a homegrown player means that the entire amount of any transfer fee will be considered 'pure profit' in their accounts. That subsequently offsets the cost of fees spent and will help Chelsea comply with regulations.
Gallagher himself though has remained tight-lipped on his future. He featured throughout England’s run to the final at Euro 2024, but was overlooked for the final as Southgate opted to start with Kobbie Mainoo.
