In a dramatic late twist to the January transfer window, Tottenham Hotspur have secured the signing of midfielder Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid. The North London club moved decisively to hijack Aston Villa's proposed deal, agreeing a permanent transfer worth a reported €40 million (approximately £35 million).
Spurs Steal a March on Premier League Rivals
The transfer saga took a sharp turn on Tuesday, 13th January 2026. Aston Villa had reached a verbal agreement with Atletico Madrid for a loan move with an option to buy the former Chelsea player. However, Tottenham's intervention with a firm, upfront cash offer proved decisive. Renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news, stating on social media platform X: "Conor Gallagher to Tottenham, here we go!"
Romano detailed that the 25-year-old England international informed Atletico of his decision to join Spurs, leading Villa to withdraw from the race. He further added that Gallagher has agreed a five-year contract with Tottenham, tying him to the club until June 2031, with a medical examination scheduled for later this week.
A Profile Familiar to English Football
Gallagher is a well-known quantity in the Premier League, having previously played for Chelsea and enjoyed a successful loan spell at Crystal Palace. During his time at Selhurst Park under manager Patrick Vieira, he showcased the box-to-box energy and goal threat that made him a standout performer.
Vieira himself drew lofty comparisons, saying: "He has this passion for the game... but I would say he has maybe the quality finishing of a Frank Lampard." At Chelsea, Gallagher made 95 appearances, contributing 10 goals and 10 assists, before his move to the Spanish capital last summer.
Immediate Impact Needed at Injury-Hit Spurs
The move comes at a critical time for Ange Postecoglou's Tottenham squad, which is currently grappling with significant injury problems across the midfield and attack. Gallagher will be expected to provide immediate energy, versatility, and a goal threat from the centre of the park.
His proven work ethic and familiarity with the pace of English football could see him slot in quickly. The transfer also represents a statement of intent from Spurs, who have beaten direct competition from other Premier League sides, with Manchester United also previously linked with a £26 million bid for the player according to Spanish reports last month.
For Gallagher, the switch offers a prime opportunity to re-establish himself in the Premier League and stake a claim for a place in England's squad for the upcoming World Cup in the summer of 2026.
