Conor Gallagher, a promising young talent from Chelsea’s academy, is set to make a move to Atletico Madrid after rejecting a new three-year contract with the Blues. The Spanish club has agreed to a £33 million deal with Chelsea, and the Premier League club is now fully supporting Gallagher’s decision to join Madrid.
This isn’t the first time Gallagher has turned down a contract offer from Chelsea. In June, he declined another attractive deal from the club. Despite wearing the captain’s armband for a significant portion of last season, Gallagher has been on the transfer list as Chelsea aims to meet the financial regulations of the Premier League.
Although Aston Villa made a club record bid for Gallagher in June, the midfielder rejected the move as he has his sights set on playing in the Champions League. Chelsea, on the other hand, has a preference for selling him to an overseas club rather than a London rival like Tottenham, who have expressed interest in the past.
Atletico Madrid may need to offload players this summer in order to finance the Gallagher deal. Chelsea, in turn, has shown interest in Atletico Madrid striker Samu Omorodion. While personal terms with Madrid have not yet been agreed upon, Gallagher is eager for the move, and Chelsea is now fully supporting his efforts to leave the club.
It’s worth noting that Gallagher only has one year remaining on his contract with Chelsea, and the club is unwilling to lose an academy graduate on a free transfer next year. This further emphasizes their willingness to sell him to Atletico Madrid.
As Gallagher was with the England squad until the end of Euro 2024, he did not join Chelsea on their pre-season tour of America. When asked about Gallagher’s future, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca remained cautious, stating that anything can happen in the transfer window, not just for Gallagher but for all players.
In conclusion, Conor Gallagher’s imminent move to Atletico Madrid is a result of his rejection of a new contract with Chelsea. The club has agreed to a £33 million deal with Madrid and is now supporting Gallagher’s desire to play in the Champions League. Gallagher’s departure from Chelsea is seen as a financial necessity for the club, and they are eager to avoid losing him on a free transfer next year. While personal terms with Madrid are yet to be finalized, Gallagher is enthusiastic about the move, and Chelsea is fully backing him.