Things went very quiet for a very long time in the storyline of Conor Gallagher’s departure from Chelsea.
After a crescendo last summer where there were actual bids going in for him, things got much quieter during the season. There was no word on him possibly signing a new contract, but also no word of concrete bids or interest to any degree which made a move seem close.
The fact that the Blues were apparently holding out for £50m probably played a big part in that, as did his great form for the first team which had people convinced that surely a new deal could be agreed.
But there’s still no resolution there, and finally a real candidate for his signature seems to be emerging in the form of Atletico Madrid. Following rumours in Spain in the last couple of days, today TalkSport claim that they have information that Diego Simeone’s side have “held talks” with Chelsea over a potential transfer.
Two sides coming closer together to bridge the gap
This latest information just backs up the general movements of the last few days – movements which are convincing us more and more that Atletico’s interest is real and that a deal can actually be done despite the big differences in initial valuation between the two parties.
Atletico’s initial offer was reportedly only €20m, but the fact that there are still talks going on now, more than a week after that was reported, shows that there must be positive progress being made, and that both sides must believe that a deal is on the cards.
Gallagher seems to have accepted that it’s potentially a great move for him. The moment we will really believe it’s happening is when we get word of personal terms being agreed.
