Gallagher Returns to Chelsea as Atletico Madrid Transfer Stalls

Conor Gallagher has returned to London following the halt of his transfer from Chelsea to Atlético Madrid, and he is expected to resume training at Chelsea's Cobham ground. The Guardian reported. His £33 million move was disrupted after Chelsea's £34.5 million deal for striker Samu Omorodion fell through. Atlético Madrid, having recently acquired Manchester City's Julian Alvarez for £81.5 million, needs a major sale to fund Gallagher's purchase.

While Gallagher's transfer remains uncertain, signing Portugal forward João Félix could salvage the move if both clubs agree on a fee. Félix is keen to return to Chelsea after a six-month loan spell in 2023. Gallagher, who has declined both a new Chelsea contract and a move to Aston Villa, must wait to see if Atlético can finalize the transfer or if another club steps in.

Chelsea's refusal to offer equitable personal terms caused Omorodion's deal to collapse, further complicating matters. This situation is likened to the flurry of Premier League player trades at the end of June, as clubs strive to meet financial rules. Gallagher, despite his loyalty and contributions to Chelsea, finds himself in a balancing act where both clubs strive to fulfill financial regulations.

While waiting for the Atlético move to proceed, Gallagher will train with Chelsea’s under-21 squad, joining outcasts Trevoh Chalobah and Romelu Lukaku. Meanwhile, Chelsea is in negotiations with Napoli over a possible loan for Victor Osimhen, and Napoli's sporting director, Giovanni Manna, is in London to negotiate. Chelsea is optimistic about finalizing both deals and others, with several players, including Raheem Sterling and Noni Madueke, potentially up for sale. Chalobah is also a transfer target for Aston Villa and Crystal Palace after being excluded from Chelsea's U.S. tour.

Earlier, SSP named PFA Young Player of the Year Nominees for 2024.