England international Conor Gallagher is set to leave Chelsea for Atletico Madrid after a dramatic U-turn on his future.
The Chelsea midfielder had initially resisted a move to the Spanish club despite Chelsea accepting a £33m bid. However, after careful consideration, Gallagher has agreed to join Diego Simeone’s side.
The 24-year-old is expected to travel to Spain to complete his medical and sign a contract, marking the end of his 18-year association with Chelsea.
Chelsea had offered Gallagher a two-year deal with an option for an extra year, but he deemed it unfavourable due to both the length of the contract and the inferior squad role offered.
A natural divide had emerged between Gallagher and Chelsea as he was believed to be a poor fit for new manager Enzo Maresca’s possession-based style of play and would not be a regular starter under the Italian.
Gallagher’s decision comes amid uncertainty over his role at Stamford Bridge. The midfielder was reportedly deemed surplus to requirements by new manager Enzo Maresca, with the Italian opting for a different style of play.
Chelsea’s decision to sell to Atletico rather than a domestic rival was influenced by the desire to recoup a significant transfer fee. Gallagher had just one year remaining on his contract, increasing the pressure to sell this summer.
