Spurs target could be on the way to Spain

Per Football Insider, Atletico Madrid are "growing in confidence" when it comes to accruing the services of Tottenham Hotspur target Conor Gallagher.

They add that Chelsea are reluctantly ready to sell the English midfielder after negotiations for a new contract broke down. The England international's contract runs out next year, and Chelsea will not want to lose his services for free, especially with their PSR issues.

There have been several reports linking Gallagher to Spurs over the past few months, with Gallagher seen as a player that suits the high-intensity football that comes with an Ange Postecoglu side.

The Chelsea midfielder was seen as someone who could add to Spurs' homegrown quota, whilst at the same time being able to make key contributions on the pitch, and not just signed for the sake of being homegrown.

He also started 37 out of 38 Premier League games last season, with Spurs' injury issues this sort of availability would have been useful. He was also regularly stand-in captain in the absences of Ben Chilwell and Reece James, whilst the "lack of leadership" at Spurs was mentioned by the fans on numerous occasions last season.

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Spurs target could be on the way to Spain

However, over the last 6 weeks or so, it has gone quiet regarding Spurs sounding out a move for Gallagher, with the same report from Football Insider suggesting that Newcastle United and Aston Villa also both showing interest in the midfielder.

There have been very few reports of late linking Spurs to an alternative midfielder, instead of wingers and strikers. Although of course the signing of Archie Gray was confirmed earlier this month, so perhaps that signing was instead of Gallagher, rather than as well as. Especially as Gray is also a homegrown player.

With the aforementioned acquisition of Gray and the resurgence of Yves Bissouma in pre-season so far, it would have become increasingly unlikely for Spurs to be able to guarantee Gallagher a starting spot.

Therefore, perhaps a deal not happening is the best for anyone. The depth would have been welcome, but a lot of money for someone not guaranteed to start. Gallagher would not have wanted to come without a nailed starting spot either.