Tottenham Hotspur are monitoring their midfield options ahead of January, and the situation surrounding Conor Gallagher in Spain has opened a window that several Premier League clubs are expected to explore.
Reports linking Tottenham with a move for Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher are not entirely new, as interest dates back to last summer when Spurs first weighed up the possibility of bringing him back to England.
The former Chelsea player remained in Spain at the time, yet fresh reports have now connected Tottenham with another approach when the January window opens, as they look at ways to strengthen their midfield options.
Gallagher has already admitted that he is not satisfied with the limited game time he has received in Madrid, and that alone could tempt clubs like Tottenham to make their move should Atletico indicate any willingness to negotiate.
Tottenham face competition for Conor Gallagher in January
According to Sky Sports, Premier League clubs are expected to queue up for Conor Gallagher in January if Atletico Madrid open the door to an exit, with several sides still tracking his situation closely.
Gallagher has played just 566 minutes in all competitions this season for Atletico, and this has raised questions about his long-term role under Diego Simeone.
There were inquiries from several Premier League clubs towards the end of the summer window, but Atletico had no intention of allowing him to leave, particularly not on loan.
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It is understood that the stance remains the same going into this winter window, even though Gallagher is keen to play more as he looks to force his way into the England squad ahead of the World Cup.
Spurs and why Conor Gallagher fits their midfield needs
Spurs could do with a player of Conor Gallagher’s profile, given his experience and versatility across multiple midfield roles.
The 25-year-old will be a strong addition to this Tottenham side, as he has experience at the top level both in the Premier League and in Europe.
He had spells in the Premier League with Chelsea, where he won the Europa League, and at Crystal Palace as well, which should reduce the adaptation period to English football.
The Englishman’s ability to operate in centre midfield, attacking midfield, defensive midfield, right midfield and left midfield offers a level of tactical flexibility that will be useful in a long and gruelling season.