Atletico Madrid are reportedly in talks with Chelsea over a deal for Conor Gallagher. The English midfielder missed the 4-1 thrashing by Celtic in Indiana as he returns from England’s Euro 2024 campaign; however, it appears that he could be heading for Spain, which might have an impact on Celtic’s Matt O’Riley.
According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are discussing a deal between €35m-40m for the midfielder.
🚨🔴⚪️ EXCLUSIVE: Atlético Madrid and Chelsea are now in direct talks for Conor Gallagher deal.
Negotiations underway for package worth around €35/40m add-ons included, requested by Chelsea.
Gallagher, on top of Atlético list as revealed in May — now getting closer. pic.twitter.com/1SFMadRGtD
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 30, 2024
Diego Simeone’s side sounded the starting pistol in the transfer hunt for O’Riley back in January as they had a £20m bid turfed out. Atletico had been expected to return in the summer but may have evaluated their options in the transfer market, which resulted in Gallagher becoming available.
This update means that Atletico will be unlikely to return for O’Riley, who is the subject of significant interest from Serie A and the Premier League. The Danish International is attracting interest from Southampton, who are ready to rival Atalanta to sign the 23-year-old. Celtic are reluctant to sell for less than £30m with the player being signed to a long term contract.
