Atletico Madrid closing in on Conor Gallagher transfer

Atletico Madrid are edging closer to securing Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher in a transfer deal, with the Spanish club confident of reaching an agreement despite initial disagreements over valuation.

According to reports, Chelsea are demanding a fee of around €40m for the 23-year-old, who is out of contract at Stamford Bridge in 2025.

However, Atletico are currently offering half of that amount, with a compromise package of €30m potentially on the table.

Gallagher, who featured in England’s Euro 2024 campaign, has yet to join Chelsea’s pre-season tour in the US, fueling speculation that a move is imminent.

Teammate Kieran Trippier, who plays for Atletico, is said to have encouraged Gallagher to make the switch.

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Atletico manager Diego Simeone had reportedly preferred Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino, but Gallagher has emerged as the club’s top target for the 2024/25 season. The Spanish side are eager to bolster their midfield options and believe Gallagher’s energy and skillset would be a valuable addition.

With Chelsea seemingly moving in a different direction, Atletico are hopeful of completing the transfer in the coming days.

The Blues have already begun their pre-season tour in the US, playing out a thrilling draw against League One side Wrexham in California, with Christopher Nkunku and Lesley Ugochukwu scoring for the Blues.

Gallagher’s potential departure would mark another significant change for Chelsea, who have been active in the transfer market this summer.

As the situation continues to unfold, fans of both clubs will be watching closely to see if Atletico can secure their top target.