Conor Gallagher has clear stance as Chelsea exit to Atletico Madrid descends into chaos

Conor Gallagher’s proposed move to Atletico Madrid has descended into chaos, with the midfielder’s position over the debacle having reportedly been made clear.

Despite some early pre-season hiccups, it looked as if it was a deal that would pass through without any problems.

Gallgher, who joined the Chelsea academy back in 2008, travelled to Madrid to complete his transfer before spending five days in a hotel.

Personal terms were agreed and Atletico had settled on a £34million fee with Chelsea for the 24-year-old’s signature.

However, the deal hit a stumbling block when Chelsea’s pursuit of striker Samu Omorodion collapsed last week, due to complications around the 20-year-old’s contract.

It threw the Gallagher deal into jeopardy, as the cash Atletico were going to use to pay for him was being funded by Omorodion’s sale.

But despite the chaos caused, as reported by The Evening Standard, Gallagher is still set on a move to the Spanish capital.

In fact, it’s claimed the English international is willing to patiently wait for the deal to sort itself out, with Gallagher intent on signing for the Madrid-based outfit.

It comes after Gallagher returned to the United Kingdom following his brief stay in Spain, with the academy graduate set to return to Chelsea training today.

But hopes of signing for Atletico could hinge on whether Chelsea can agree a deal with the La Liga outfit for wantaway star Joao Felix.

Felix spent six months at Chelsea on loan during the 2022/23 campaign, with it reported at the time the Blues were interested in making the move permanent.

Such a transfer didn’t materialise, but it’s now claimed Atletico would be willing to allow Felix to leave at a cut price if it means they can secure Gallagher’s services this summer.

Away from the messy transfer saga, Chelsea have been pushing ahead with their summer business, including tying star man Cole Palmer down to a new contract.

Palmer, who scored in last month’s Euro 2024 final for England, has agreed to fresh terms that will see him remain under contract at Stamford Bridge until 2033.

It’s also reported Chelsea will enter negotiations with Nicolas Jackson, despite the striker still having seven years on his deal, which was signed just last year.

Jackson netted 17 goals in 44 appearances across all competitions for Chelsea last season.