Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as frontrunners to sign Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher after overtaking Aston Villa in the pursuit of the England international, with a permanent transfer deal worth £35 million now close to completion.
Spurs are expected to finalise the move for the 25-year-old after signalling their readiness to meet Atletico’s asking price in full, according to a report by BBC Sport on Tuesday. The development marks a significant shift in the transfer race, with Tottenham’s willingness to proceed with an outright purchase proving decisive in swaying the Spanish club.
Aston Villa had been regarded as favourites to secure Gallagher’s signature earlier in the transfer window and were confident of concluding a deal. However, their preference for an initial loan arrangement with an option to buy ultimately failed to satisfy Atletico Madrid, who have made clear their intention to sell the midfielder on a permanent basis this summer.
Tottenham’s approach, which includes a straightforward permanent transfer structure, has placed them firmly in pole position. While personal terms between the player and the North London club have not yet been finalised, discussions are ongoing and are understood to be progressing smoothly, with agreement considered a formality.
Gallagher is eager for the transfer to be completed swiftly, ideally before Atletico Madrid’s Copa del Rey fixture against Deportivo on Tuesday night, as he seeks to resolve his future and begin preparations for the remainder of the season.
A return to the Premier League would represent a notable career development for Gallagher, who moved to Spain last year following his departure from Chelsea. The midfielder is hopeful that consistent playing time in England will enhance his prospects of reclaiming a regular place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad ahead of this summer’s World Cup.
Gallagher has featured just once under Tuchel since the German’s appointment as England manager, playing 59 minutes in a 3–1 friendly defeat by Senegal. The midfielder is understood to be determined to force his way back into international contention through improved club form and visibility in the Premier League.
Tottenham’s pursuit of Gallagher has been driven in part by injury concerns within their midfield ranks. Uruguayan international Rodrigo Bentancur has been ruled out for at least three months, leaving manager Ange Postecoglou short of options in the centre of the pitch. The Australian coach is understood to view Gallagher’s high-energy playing style and work rate as a strong fit for his system, which emphasises intensity, pressing, and quick transitions.
Gallagher, a product of Chelsea’s academy, enjoyed a breakthrough spell on loan at Crystal Palace during the 2021–22 season, earning widespread recognition for his tireless performances and box-to-box capabilities. His displays that season helped secure his place in England’s World Cup squad for the 2022 tournament in Qatar.
However, his time at Chelsea under subsequent managers proved inconsistent, and he eventually departed Stamford Bridge in 2024 to join Atletico Madrid. His spell in Spain has been marked by limited impact, and a return to England is seen as an opportunity to rebuild momentum and re-establish himself at the highest level.
Tottenham’s interest in bolstering their midfield comes as the club continues to compete across multiple fronts this season, including domestic league and cup competitions. Postecoglou has repeatedly emphasised the need for squad depth to maintain the tempo and pressing style that has defined his approach since taking charge.
The anticipated arrival of Gallagher would provide Spurs with additional versatility and energy in midfield, complementing existing options and offering cover during Bentancur’s absence. The transfer is expected to be finalised in the coming days, subject to the completion of personal terms and medical formalities.
