Newcastle lead transfer race for £45m midfielder but Aston Villa have ‘entered picture’

Newcastle United appear to be leading the race to sign Conor Gallagher, with Aston Villa now emerging as a late contender for the midfielder’s signature. After just one season with Atlético Madrid, Gallagher could be on the move again, with several Premier League clubs showing interest in bringing him back to England.

Newcastle, who are preparing for another Champions League campaign, seem most advanced in their pursuit, with manager Eddie Howe reportedly eager to add Gallagher to his midfield options.

Gallagher joined Atlético Madrid last summer in a move that netted Chelsea a significant profit, with the deal valued at over £30 million.

Under Diego Simeone, the 25-year-old quickly became a regular fixture in the squad, amassing 50 appearances across all competitions, including nine in the Champions League.

His work rate, versatility, and tactical discipline earned praise in Spain, although Atleti ultimately finished third in La Liga and fell short in other competitions.

Gallagher’s performances also kept him in the England frame, with appearances under Lee Carsley and a recent start in a friendly under Thomas Tuchel.

A product of Chelsea’s academy, Gallagher had loan spells at Charlton Athletic, Swansea City, West Bromwich Albion, and Crystal Palace before finally earning a place in Chelsea’s first team.

However, his career took a bold turn when he opted to move abroad in search of regular top-tier football, and Atlético offered that platform.

Despite a solid campaign in Spain, Gallagher might be tempted by a return to familiar surroundings, particularly if a club like Newcastle can offer Champions League football and a defined role in a competitive midfield setup.

Newcastle’s interest aligns with their broader ambition to reinforce the spine of their team. With Joelinton, Bruno Guimarães, and Sandro Tonali already in place, Gallagher could add energy, tenacity, and experience to an already talented engine room.

Eddie Howe has been meticulous in his transfer targets, and Gallagher appears to be a player the Magpies see as an ideal fit to maintain their upward trajectory.

Aston Villa, however, have entered the conversation by initiating contact with Gallagher’s representatives. Villa boss Unai Emery has long been an admirer of the midfielder, and the club previously explored a potential move when discussions were ongoing around Omari Kellyman and Ian Maatsen.

Emery views Gallagher as a player who could thrive in Villa’s system and add depth and dynamism to their midfield as they also prepare for a European campaign.

Reports suggest Atlético Madrid are open to selling Gallagher for around £45 million—a fee that reflects his consistent performances, international pedigree, and age. It’s a significant figure, but one that both Newcastle and Villa could justify if they believe Gallagher can be a long-term solution in midfield.

With both clubs vying for European success and domestic improvement, the addition of a proven, high-energy midfielder like Gallagher could prove decisive.

As things stand, Newcastle hold the edge due to their advanced planning and potential to offer Gallagher a key role in a side built for Champions League football.

Villa’s interest may complicate the situation, but unless they act swiftly, the former Chelsea man could well find himself donning black and white in the upcoming season.