Atletico Madrid has emerged as the leading contender to sign Conor Gallagher from Chelsea in the summer transfer window.
The 24-year-old midfielder may leave Stamford Bridge following the appointment of Enzo Maresca as the new head coach.
Despite his impressive performances last season, Gallagher might be surplus to requirements due to Chelsea’s abundance of midfield talent.
Gallagher started all but one Premier League game under Mauricio Pochettino and captained the team for the final 12 matches.
He scored five goals and provided nine assists in 37 league appearances, making him one of the team’s standout performers alongside Cole Palmer.
However, with Chelsea’s wealth of midfield options, including Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, and Romeo Lavia, Gallagher’s future at the club is uncertain.
Atletico Madrid has initiated contact with Chelsea regarding a possible transfer, with Diego Simeone keen to strengthen his midfield.
Gallagher is high on Atletico’s list, but a deal may be challenging due to his high valuation of around £50 million and his contract expiring in a year.
Despite this, Atletico’s interest is serious, and they are willing to negotiate to secure his signature.
The recent signing of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from Leicester City for £30 million could impact Gallagher’s future at Chelsea.
If he remains at the club, he would likely compete with Dewsbury-Hall for the No.8 role on the right side of Maresca’s midfield trio.
Maresca plans to implement a system similar to the one he used at Leicester, where Dewsbury-Hall thrived.
Gallagher’s potential departure would mark a significant change in his career, having established himself as a key player at Chelsea last season.
However, with the arrival of new talent and a change in management, his opportunities may be limited.
Atletico Madrid offers a new challenge and the chance to work under Diego Simeone, a renowned coach in La Liga.
The transfer saga will unfold in the coming weeks, with Chelsea and Atletico Madrid negotiating the terms of the deal.
