Key Takeaways:
- Tottenham have finalised a €40 million agreement with Atletico Madrid for Conor Gallagher, overshadowing Aston Villa’s pursuit
- Gallagher is expected in London this week to undergo a medical and sign a long-term contract
- Spurs are closing in on Brazilian left-back Souza, with a £13m move from Santos imminent
Transfer Battle: Tottenham Triumph over Aston Villa
Tottenham Hotspur are on the verge of securing Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid, in what represents an important transfer coup for the club. The north London side have accelerated their pursuit of the ex-Chelsea midfielder, negotiating a deal totalling €40 million with Atletico Madrid. Meanwhile, Aston Villa, who had sought to take Gallagher on loan with an option to buy, find themselves outmanoeuvred in the race for the England international.
The urgency for Spurs to reinforce their midfield grew following confirmation that Rodrigo Bentancur faces a three-month absence due to hamstring surgery. Tottenham’s willingness to commit to an immediate and permanent signing proved pivotal, as Atletico preferred a full transfer for the 25-year-old, rather than a loan with a purchase option or obligation at the end of the season.
🚨💣 Conor Gallagher to Tottenham, here we go! The player has just informed Atléti about his decision to join #THFC.
Spurs set to pay €40m fee, permanent deal to beat Villa.
Aston Villa agreed deal with Atlético today but leave race as player didn’t give final green light. pic.twitter.com/Xm5mreDa9M
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 12, 2026
Gallagher Poised for Premier League Return
Gallagher is scheduled to arrive in London early this week to complete his medical assessments and finalise contract terms. No issues are anticipated regarding personal terms, and he will sign a long-term deal with the Lilywhites. The central midfielder struggled for regular selection under Diego Simeone this campaign, starting only four matches in LaLiga. A move back to England presents the opportunity for a fresh start and a platform to impress Thomas Tuchel ahead of England’s World Cup squad selection this summer.
Impact on Tottenham and Villa’s Midfield Plans
Securing Gallagher’s signature would be a significant setback for Unai Emery’s Villa, who are grappling with a trio of midfield injuries: Boubacar Kamara, Amadou Onana, and Ross Barkley. Both Tottenham and Villa had strong interest, but other potential suitors across Europe hesitated over a permanent transfer, preferring a short-term loan solution.
For Tottenham, this arrival follows a period of poor results, with just two wins from 12 Premier League fixtures that has left the club down in 14th position. The north Londoners had previously endured a high-profile blow in the transfer market when Eberechi Eze opted to join local rivals Arsenal last summer. This time, the club appears to have learned from past mistakes and acted decisively.
Gallagher’s Career by the Numbers
Prior to his switch to Spain, Gallagher enjoyed an impressive spell in the Premier League, having made a name for himself at Crystal Palace during the 2021-22 campaign. Upon his return to Chelsea, he broke through to the first team, at times captaining the side, until his £33m move abroad.
Across stints at Chelsea, West Bromwich Albion, and Crystal Palace, Gallagher boasts the following statistics:
| Premier League Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|
| 136 | 18 | 13 |
At 25 years of age, Gallagher has extensive experience and an attacking edge, attributes that Tottenham need to rejuvenate their struggling squad.
Other Spurs Transfer Activity
In addition to the Gallagher deal, Tottenham are closing in on another addition, as Brazilian left-back Souza is approaching a £13m transfer from Santos.
Managerial Pressure Continues
Spurs’ struggles this season have placed head coach Frank under scrutiny, especially following an FA Cup third-round defeat to Aston Villa. The head coach has recorded only five wins in his last 20 matches and has suffered seven defeats from the last 13 games across all competitions. Fresh recruits like Gallagher and Souza are viewed as crucial in reversing the team’s fortunes.
