Well, that escalated quickly. Tottenham have swooped in ahead of Aston Villa to sign Conor Gallagher from Atlético Madrid in a deal worth around £35 million. The former Chelsea midfielder is heading back to his home city of London after 18 months in Spain.
Gallagher earned the nickname "The Pitbull" for his tenacious style at Atlético. He seemed perfect for Diego Simeone's intense, high-energy system. The England international even bagged two goals in his first three La Liga starts when Simeone pushed him further forward.
But things haven't worked out as planned this season. Gallagher has been shuffled around the pitch, playing deep, wide left, and pretty much everywhere else. He's become a utility player rather than a specialist, and it's cost him his starting spot. He's only started four of Atlético's 19 league games this season.
That's a problem when you're 25 and hoping to make England's World Cup squad. You need regular minutes, not cameo appearances off the bench. Villa spotted an opportunity and were reportedly exploring a six-month loan with an option to buy.
Spurs Act Fast After Bentancur Injury
Enter Tottenham with their checkbook ready. Spurs desperately needed midfield reinforcements after Rodrigo Bentancur suffered a nasty hamstring injury against Bournemouth. The Uruguayan needed surgery and will be out for at least three months.
Tottenham didn't mess about. They agreed a deal with Atlético worth €40 million before Villa could even get serious negotiations going. Gallagher is expected to complete his medical on Tuesday and finalize the move.
For Atlético, it's decent business. They'll break even on the £35 million they paid Chelsea for him. For Spurs, they're getting a versatile midfielder who knows the Premier League inside out. His energy and work rate could prove crucial as they push for European qualification.
From a betting perspective, Gallagher's arrival should strengthen Tottenham's squad depth significantly. If you're backing Spurs for a top-four finish, this move addresses a key weakness exposed by Bentancur's injury. His Premier League experience means he should hit the ground running without needing an adaptation period.
Tel Looking for Exit Already
Meanwhile, Tottenham might have another situation on their hands. Mathys Tel reportedly wants out on loan just six months after his permanent £30 million move from Bayern Munich. The French forward hasn't impressed and wants regular football.
Paris FC, Fenerbahçe, and Galatasaray are all interested in taking him on loan. If Tel leaves, Spurs will need to bring in another attacker, especially since Brennan Johnson has already joined Crystal Palace. RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande and Juventus star Kenan Yıldız are mentioned as targets, though both would cost a fortune.
It's shaping up to be a busy end to the transfer window for Tottenham. One in, potentially one out, and maybe another arrival before deadline day.
