Conor Gallagher is considering a move to Atletico Madrid after receiving a “brutal warning” from Chelsea.
The England international is now able to negotiate personal terms, as Chelsea has accepted an offer of approximately £33 million.
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Earlier in the transfer window, Gallagher declined a move to Aston Villa, and Tottenham have also shown interest in his situation.
The 24-year-old played a crucial role in Chelsea’s midfield, contributing significantly to the team’s improvement in the latter stages of Mauricio Pochettino’s tenure.
Despite his strong performances, Chelsea is willing to let Gallagher go and, according to the BBC, has informed him that he is unlikely to play a major role under Enzo Maresca, largely due to the Italian’s possession-based strategy.
In June, Gallagher reportedly turned down a three-year contract, structured as a two-year deal with an option for an additional year.
Although it seems he is being pushed out, Gallagher’s stance is that he would likely stay and fight for his future if offered better terms, believing he can succeed under Chelsea’s latest manager.
Gallagher is not the only midfielder on Diego Simeone’s radar at Atletico Madrid, as they are also targeting Mikel Merino, who is in the final year of his contract with Real Sociedad and has been valued at £40m.
Merino has also attracted interest from Arsenal, who are close to agreeing on a deal for £25m.
Chelsea’s transfer window has been busy, with academy graduates Ian Maatsen, Lewis Hall, and Omari Hutchinson sold to Premier League rivals.
The club has spent over £74m on players such as Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Omari Kellyman, Renato Veiga, Caleb Wiley, Marc Guiu, and Tosin Adarabioyo.
