Chelsea have agreed a £33 million fee with Atletico Madrid for midfielder Conor Gallagher, as per Fabrizio Romano.
Conor Gallagher’s future
The England international has opted to leave Stamford Bridge after rejecting a new contract offer at Stamford Bridge and being reportedly banished from the first team.
The 23-year-old has been a subject of interest from several clubs, but Atletico have emerged as the front-runners. The Spanish side are now in advanced talks to secure a deal for Gallagher, who is expected to sign a five-year contract.
According to Romano, the midfielder said “Yes” to the Madrid club's formal offer, but the deal only becomes official after “formal steps” are concluded.
🚨🔴⚪️ EXCLUSIVE: Conor Gallagher has verbally agreed terms and said YES to join Atlético Madrid!
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 5, 2024
‘Here we go’ to follow today after formal steps, five year deal 🧨🏴
La Liga’s record fee this summer, €40m to Chelsea — brokered by Ali Barat from Epic Sports and Paul Nicholls. pic.twitter.com/7rOQgmY2jh
Why Chelsea are selling Gallagher
Chelsea’s letting Gallagher leave comes as they look to restructure their squad and comply with financial fair play regulations.
The midfielder’s imminent departure marks another significant change for the West London club as they look to rebuild under new manager Enzo Maresca.
What comes next?
Chelsea are still on their pre-season Tour of the United States, where they have drawn with Wrexham, and been defeated by Celtic and Manchester City, either side of a comfortable win over Club America.
The Blues face European champions Real Madrid on August 7 at Bank of America Stadium.