“I'm so excited to show the fans what I can do on the pitch and hopefully give them some special moments and memories.”
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) January 14, 2026
Conor's first words as a Spurs player 🤍 pic.twitter.com/Z3RlkezXzv
Welcome to North London. pic.twitter.com/FsCLFWgxFR
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) January 14, 2026
Tottenham Hotspur have completed the signing of England midfielder Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid in a transfer valued between £34m and £35m. The agreement was reached in January 2026 and is subject to international clearance. Gallagher signs a long-term contract in north London after an 18-month spell in Spain in which game time became increasingly limited during his second season.
The move represents a significant turning point for the 25-year-old. Gallagher joined Atletico Madrid from Chelsea in August 2024 for a fee of about £38m, making an immediate contribution in his debut campaign before finding opportunities harder to secure later on. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, consistent minutes in the Premier League offer him a timely platform to push for inclusion in England’s plans.
Career Statistics & Background
- Premier League appearances: 136 (West Brom, Crystal Palace, Chelsea)
- Atletico Madrid record: 4 goals and 6 assists in his debut season
- Transfer fee: £34m to Tottenham, following a £38m move to Madrid in 2024
- Contract length: 5.5 years at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
Tottenham accelerated their pursuit after Rodrigo Bentancur sustained a hamstring injury during the defeat at Bournemouth. The Uruguay international has undergone surgery and is expected to be absent for at least three months, leaving Thomas Frank short of senior midfield options during a demanding run of fixtures.
Competition for Gallagher was intense. Aston Villa and Manchester United also showed interest, while Villa explored a loan with an option to buy. Tottenham prevailed with a permanent deal aligned with Atletico’s preference.
After signing, Gallagher stated that he was “so happy and excited” to take the next step in his career and described Tottenham as “an amazing club”, adding that the move came together quickly and that he is ready to get onto the pitch. He spoke of a desire to create special memories with supporters.
Thomas Frank welcomed the arrival, describing Gallagher as a top midfielder with leadership qualities, maturity and strong personality. He emphasised the player’s running power, pressing ability and eye for goal, while pointing out that despite considerable experience in the Premier League, LaLiga and with England, Gallagher still has room to develop.
Tottenham’s current situation makes his arrival particularly timely. With Pape Sarr at the Africa Cup of Nations, Lucas Bergvall injured and Bentancur sidelined, Joao Palhinha and 19-year-old Archie Gray had become the primary options. Gallagher adds proven top-flight experience and immediate depth.
Tactically, he brings relentless work rate, high pressing and forward surges from midfield. While not a classic deep-lying playmaker, his dynamism in transition and ability to contribute defensively and offensively should enhance Tottenham’s balance. His creative return at Chelsea, including multiple assists and a high volume of key passes, underlines the additional attacking threat he can provide.
The transfer marks both a response to short-term squad needs and a longer-term investment. If Gallagher settles quickly, he has the potential to become a central figure in Tottenham’s midfield and strengthen his case for international selection ahead of 2026.
