Tottenham Hotspur have surged ahead in the race for England midfielder Conor Gallagher, edging past Aston Villa and moving decisively toward a £35 million deal with Atletico Madrid.
BBC Sport reported on Tuesday that Spurs are confident of sealing the transfer after signalling their readiness to meet Atletico’s full valuation for the 25-year-old a move that has effectively shifted the balance of power in their favour.
For weeks, Aston Villa had appeared firmly in control of the chase. Gallagher was seen as a key target for Unai Emery, and Villa were widely regarded as frontrunners. But their proposal an initial loan deal with an option to buy failed to sway the Spanish side, who have made it clear they prefer a clean, permanent sale this summer.
Tottenham, sensing an opening, moved swiftly. Their willingness to commit to an outright transfer has placed them in pole position, with negotiations now progressing rapidly. Atletico have remained open to selling Gallagher, and Spurs’ direct approach has proven decisive.
While personal terms are yet to be formally concluded, sources close to the talks suggest discussions are advancing smoothly and are expected to be a formality rather than a stumbling block.
If completed, the move would mark a significant statement of intent from Tottenham as they continue to reshape their midfield ahead of the new Premier League season and a fresh chapter for Gallagher, whose return to English football now looks increasingly inevitable.