In summary:
- Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher has signed a five-year deal with Atletico Madrid for a reported fee of 42 million euros.
- Gallagher, a Chelsea academy graduate, gained valuable experience through loan spells at West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace before breaking into the Chelsea first team.
- The 24-year-old midfielder joins Atletico Madrid as they aim to strengthen their squad and compete for the La Liga.
England midfielder Conor Gallagher has signed a five-year contract with Atletico Madrid from Chelsea, the La Liga and Premier League teams announced on Wednesday.
Gallagher, who has been with Chelsea since he was eight years old, has reportedly signed a deal with Atletico Madrid until 2029 after the club paid 42 million euros for the 24-year-old.
“We wish Conor the very best as he begins a new chapter in his career,” Chelsea said in an official announcement published on their website.
Gallagher did not make his Chelsea debut until 2022, having spent the most of his senior career on loan, including spells at Premier League teams West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace.
Due to injuries to Reece James and Ben Chilwell, Gallagher started 37 Premier League games last season, missing just one due to suspension. He also served as the team captain for the majority of the campaign.
Gallagher’s Chelsea contract was about to expire in a year, and new manager Enzo Maresca recently said that Gallagher had received an offer for a new deal.
In 2021, he made his debut for England. He has since earned 18 caps and five appearances in the 2024 Euro, where England advanced to the final but lost 2-1 to Spain.
Later on Wednesday, Gallagher and Atletico’s other new signings will be introduced at a fan-only celebration at their Metropolitano stadium, with former Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez serving as the main guest.
Atletico have spent around 200 million euros following deals for Spain defender Robin Le Normand and Norway striker Alexander Sorloth.
