Huge Chelsea transfer claims emerge as shock £33m move ‘getting closer’

Chelsea and Atletico Madrid are in direct talks for the transfer of Conor Gallagher with a deal now getting closer, it has been claimed.

Over the last few months, the expectation has been that Gallagher would depart Stamford Bridge this summer as the Blues aim to secure pure profit. Despite performing admirably in the 2023/24 season, that appears to still be the case with transfer guru Fabrizio Romano revealing he is edging closer to joining Atletico.

With negotiations underway, Chelsea have set their price between £28.5million (€35m) and £33.7million (€40m) with add-ons included. Tottenham have been long-term admirers of the midfielder, however a move abroad always seemed more likely given Chelsea’s understandable reluctance in selling to a direct rival.

Alongside helping to balance their financial books, the Blues are also keen to sell as Gallagher see his current contract expire next summer. Given he is a graduate of the Cobham academy, the England international was not overly open to leaving with some reports claiming he would run down his deal and depart as a free agent.

When asked about his future, ahead of Euro 2024 kicking off, Gallagher was understandably coy. “I’m a Chelsea player right now and I am just focused on England and the tournament,” he admitted in a press conference.

“It is not difficult, I’m in a very privileged position to be at a tournament like this and I couldn’t be happier with my situation. Right now we have a game in three days, so certainly that is all I’m worried about, and trying to be as ready as I can and as the team can for that game”