Atletico Madrid completed the signing of midfielder Conor Gallagher from Chelsea in a deal worth around 40 million euros ($44 million), LaLiga has announced on Wednesday.
The transfer had appeared to be in jeopardy after Atlético striker Samu Omorodionmove in the opposite direction has fallen down.
Gallagher spent five days in Madrid earlier this month — with Atlético confirming he was at the Metropolitano Stadium, as the process of signing him was finalised — but was forced to return to the UK after the Omorodion transfer collapsed.
After a week of negotiations, Chelsea agreed to sign the contract Joao Felix from Atlético, allowing Gallagher’s transfer to be completed. He has signed a contract until 2029.
Gallagher sent his farewell message to Chelsea in a social media post.
He said: “To everyone at Chelsea, thank you for making my dream come true. It was an honour to wear that shirt, and it was a dream come true to captain the team on so many occasions.
“I loved every moment. These memories will last forever. I appreciate all the love and support from the fans. Hearing my name chanted at the Bridge was a special feeling, and the banner you held up meant so much to me. Thank you for everything. I wish the club all the best for the future, and I hope to see you all at Stamford Bridge soon!”
Sources told ESPN that Older brother The midfielder has rejected a new contract offer to stay at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea’s final offer to Gallagher was a two-year deal with the option of a third season and included a significant pay rise.
The 24-year-old has previously rejected offers to move to Aston Villa while Tottenham have also been following his situation for months.
Gallagher came through Chelsea’s academy and established himself in the first team after a successful loan spell Crystal Palace in the 2021-22 season.
He played 136 Premier League games, scoring 18 goals and providing 13 assists.
Atlético have had a busy summer in the transfer market, as well as signing defender Robin Le Normand and forward Alexander Sorloth and Julian Alvarez.
Information from ESPN’s James Olley, Rodrigo Faez and Alex Kirkland contributed to this report.
