Former Chelsea star Conor Gallagher has made the switch from Atletico Madrid to Tottenham.
After several days of speculation, Tottenham Hotspur have finally landed their first signing of the January transfer window.
Spurs have officially announced the signing of Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid, with the central midfielder penning a long-term contract with the club- subject to international clearance.
Tottenham saw off competition from Premier League rivals Aston Villa to secure the 25-year-old’s signature. He will wear the No.22 shirt at Spurs.
Conor Gallagher, who has joined the Lilywhites for a fee in the region of £34million, moved to Atletico Madrid from Chelsea in the summer of 2024. He made 50 appearances for Atletico Madrid during his debut season in Spain, chipping in with four goals. However, his importance to manager Diego Simeone has dropped this season, with the midfielder making just four starts in La Liga during the first half of the campaign.
The Hotspur Way chiefs have been long-term admirers of the England international’s talent. They were keen to sign him from Chelsea before he decided to move to Spain to team up with Diego Simeone’s forces at Wanda Metropolitano. They have been keeping tabs on Gallagher’s situation at Atletico Madrid for months, and when the opportunity arose, the club bosses acted swiftly to bag his signature.
Conor Gallagher speaks up for the first time as a Tottenham player
Speaking to Tottenham’s media channels, Gallagher said: “I’m so happy and excited to be here, taking the next step in my career at an amazing club.
“I wanted to be a Spurs player, and thankfully, the Club felt the same. It was very easy, it happened very quickly and I’m ready to get on the pitch.
“I know how great the fans are, I’m really happy to be a part of it here and want to create special moments and memories together.”
Tottenham head coach, Thomas Frank, added: “Conor is a top midfielder, who we have worked tirelessly to add to our squad.
“He is still young, so has plenty of room for improvement, but also has huge experience across the Premier League, La Liga and with the England national team.
“Conor has captained teams so will bring leadership, maturity, character and personality to our dressing room, while his running power, pressing ability and eye for goal will strengthen us in a key area of the pitch.
“I’m excited about working with him every day and I know the fans will love what he will bring to the team.”
Fantastic signing for Spurs!
Gallagher’s arrival is a major boost for Thomas Frank, especially after Rodrigo Bentancur was ruled out of action for three months following hamstring surgery. Lucas Bergvall is also out, while Pape Matar Sarr is representing Senegal at the AFCON.
A hard-working, tenacious and spirited player, Gallagher would instantly improve Tottenham’s midfield unit. His stamina and work ethic are infectious, while the midfielder will bring much-needed leadership skills on and off the pitch. Should he get the international clearance on time, the ex-Chelsea man will be eligible to face West Ham United at home on Saturday.
Hopefully, Gallagher lives up to the lofty expectations of the Tottenham fans and represents our badge with total commitment and pride.
