Conor Gallagher Leaves Chelsea for Atletico Madrid in £34 Million Deal
Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher is set to join Atletico Madrid after 16 years with the Premier League club. The 24-year-old will fly to Spain on Monday to finalize the move, signing a five-year contract with the La Liga team.
Chelsea agreed to a £34 million deal with Atletico Madrid last week. Despite interest from other top Premier League clubs, Gallagher chose Atletico for the opportunity of a long-term contract and Champions League football.
Gallagher’s departure follows his rejection of Chelsea’s offer of a two-year contract extension with an additional year option. He wanted a longer commitment, similar to those given to his teammates. Chelsea decided to sell him rather than risk him leaving for free next summer, as happened with Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.
The decision to part ways with Gallagher, who has been at Chelsea since he was eight years old, is seen as controversial among fans. He was a key player and fan favorite, captaining the team under former head coach Mauricio Pochettino last season. However, new head coach Enzo Maresca informed Gallagher he would be a squad player in the new high-possession style of play.
Chelsea respected Gallagher’s need for regular playing time to maintain his status as an England international. A longer contract with limited playing time could jeopardize his place in future national team selections.
Gallagher is expected to complete his medical and sign the contract shortly after arriving in Madrid. This move marks the end of his long tenure at Chelsea and the beginning of a new chapter with Atletico Madrid.
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