Tottenham Hotspur may have just beaten Aston Villa to the signing of a former Premier League midfielder after a £35m bid.
Reports over the past weeks have stated that Atletico Madrid are open to parting ways with former Premier League midfielder Conor Gallagher.
The versatile midfielder, capable of operating across the middle of the park, has struggled for game time this season, managing just 665 minutes for the Spanish side in La Liga.
That situation has sparked interest from both Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur during the winter window, as the two clubs look to bolster their midfield options.
Tottenham submit £35m bid to sign Conor Gallagher
We reported a few hours ago that Spurs are looking to step up their pursuit of the Atletico Madrid midfielder, although concerns remain over his wage demands.
Aston Villa, on the other hand, have no such concerns and are said to have agreed personal terms with Gallagher, with only final details remaining, according to Fabrizio Romano.
BBC Sport reporter Sami Mokbel has stated that both Aston Villa and Tottenham were in talks over a potential move for Conor Gallagher. It is understood that Atletico Madrid are open to a sale, either permanently or via a loan with an obligation to buy.
Villa were believed to be the most advanced, with Spurs prepared to accelerate their interest if the player shows a willingness to move to north London.
According to David Ornstein, that is exactly what has just happened. The Athletic report that Tottenham have submitted a bid worth £34.7m, which is expected to be accepted by Atletico. Gallagher himself is said to be keen on a move to Spurs.
Ornstein added that although Villa showed real interest, no agreements were reached with the La Liga side, with Unai Emery’s side trying to ‘maintain financial discipline’.
Spurs need Gallagher after Bentancur injury
Gallagher is a player with a wealth of experience, having made 136 Premier League appearances across spells with Crystal Palace, Chelsea and West Bromwich Albion.
He would be a solid addition to a Tottenham side currently struggling with injuries, particularly with Rodrigo Bentancur set for a three-month spell on the sidelines.
Pape Sarr also remains at AFCON with Senegal for the time being, while the likes of James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski are long-term injury absentees.
This all comes after reports that Lucas Paqueta has already snubbed a move to Spurs this winter.