Newcastle United have been linked with a move for former Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher.
Conor Gallagher insisted he “loves” playing for Atletico Madrid earlier this year amid reported Newcastle United interest.
A surprise move saw the former Chelsea man head to Spain following Euro 2024 last summer. Gallagher was offered a two-year contract by the Blues - which he considered derisory given the influx of stars at Stamford Bridge.
The 25-year-old played 50 times for Atletico across all competitions in what was a below-par season for Diego Simeone’s men. A third-place finish in La Liga and a last-16 Champions League exit were followed up with a group stage humiliation at the Club World Cup.
Conor Gallagher available for £33m
Various sources have suggested Gallagher would be allowed to leave if a potential suitor offered the £33million paid 12 months ago. He started just one game at the Club World Cup and was brought off at half-time, potentially giving a hint on his future.
Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest are two clubs that have also been linked with the midfielder. It is understood that Gallagher would prefer a return to England if Atletico decide to cash in.
Newcastle United interest
Javi Gomara has been the most vocal on possible interest from St James’ Park. However, NewcastleWorld is aware of Eddie Howe liking Gallagher while the Magpies were still gripped by PSR restrictions.
Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton are the standout midfield trio on Tyneside but Sean Longstaff and Joe Willock have been linked with moves away. Interestingly, this is a trick Newcastle have played before, with Kieran Trippier arriving from Atletico in 2022.
The two were former England teammates until Trippier’s retirement last year. Gallagher would certainly be viewed as a signing to “raise the floor” of Newcastle’s squad.
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Conor Gallagher happy at Atletico Madrid
Speaking earlier this year, Gallagher opened up about enjoying his time in Spain. He also hinted at “more to come” in a red-and-white shirt.
“I love playing for Atleti, it’s a really special club,” Gallagher said. “This is (my) first season, and I think there’s more to come from me, which is really exciting.
“I’m happy to play anywhere on the pitch for the manager. Of course, I want to make the box and score goals, I wanted to do that more so this season than I have. ... In the last couple of games, I’ve got into good positions, and I could have got maybe one or two more goals, so it’s looking good.”
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