Conor Gallagher has decided to reject a new contract offer from Chelsea, opening the door to a possible move to Atletico Madrid.
The 24-year-old midfielder has less than a year left on his current contract and is now considering a transfer to the Spanish club.
Chelsea and Atletico have reportedly agreed a transfer fee of around £33 million (US$42.3 million) plus add-ons for Gallagher.
This decision comes after Gallagher turned down a three-year contract extension with Chelsea, which included an option for a further year. Despite being a regular last season, Gallagher has decided to explore new opportunities.
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Maresca’s observations and future prospects
Enzo Maresca, Chelsea’s new manager, acknowledged the situation and said:
“When the transfer market opens, unfortunately, anything can happen. Not just for Conor, but for all players.”
?❌ The new contract proposed by Chelsea twice and rejected by Conor Gallagher was valid for two years plus the option for one more season.
Chelsea agreed a club-record deal with Aston Villa for Gallagher in June… Conor said no.
Now, he must decide whether to move to Atlético. image.twitter.com/GXbAPAFZGC
—Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 1, 2024
His comments suggest Gallagher’s future at Chelsea is uncertain, with the club now willing to sell him rather than risk losing him for free next summer.
Atletico Madrid’s interest in Gallagher comes at a time when the midfielder is evaluating his options.
Gallagher’s decision to reject Chelsea’s contract offer follows his previous refusal to extend his contract into 2022. He played in all but one of Chelsea’s Premier League games last season, demonstrating his importance to the team.
However, the prospect of a move to Atletico, a club that consistently competes in the Champions League under Diego Simeone, appears to be an attractive opportunity for him.
Despite offers from Tottenham and Aston Villa, Gallagher appears to be interested in moving abroad. Atletico’s consistent Champions League participation and Simeone’s leadership make the Spanish club an attractive destination.
