EPL Index
·11 Januari 2026
Report: Tottenham Hotspur plotting move to sign former Chelsea star

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·11 Januari 2026

Tottenham’s long running interest in Conor Gallagher has reached a critical moment. According to TEAMtalk, Spurs are fully aware that it is now “now or never” if they want to bring the midfielder back to the Premier League, with Aston Villa stepping up their pursuit in recent days.
Gallagher’s name has hovered around Tottenham for some time. As TEAMtalk state, “Spurs have been considering a move for the midfielder for some time, as he is also linked to Manchester United and Aston Villa.” That background interest now feels sharper, more urgent, with Villa making what has been described as a “definitive move” for the 25 year old.
The sense of momentum matters. Tottenham know hesitation in this market often leads to regret.
TEAMtalk reporter Graeme Bailey revealed that Villa’s approach has accelerated the situation, alerting Spurs to the reality that waiting may no longer be an option. The Villa links “have been showing particular strength in the last few days,” and Spurs are increasingly conscious that a rival could close the deal quickly.
There are complications. Sources acknowledge that Gallagher’s contract at Atletico Madrid “stretches towards the very top of their own wage ceiling,” a detail that cannot be ignored in north London. Tottenham operate with defined financial boundaries, and Gallagher’s personal terms present a genuine hurdle.
Yet the door remains open. TEAMtalk note that “if the finances around his personal terms can be negotiated, there has always been potential of attempting to bring him back to English football.” That possibility has not disappeared, even as Villa push forward.

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Tottenham’s squad needs are clear. TEAMtalk report that Spurs “are becoming stretched in midfield,” and there is growing concern internally about how the second half of the season unfolds without reinforcement. Gallagher’s profile appeals because of reliability rather than flair. He offers energy, pressing, and tactical discipline.
Spurs’ admiration is not new. They “did look into a deal before he joined Atleti for £34m,” and that prior interest reflects long term belief rather than opportunism. Sources also suggest Gallagher “has an interest in making a switch back to the Premier League, despite a determination to make things work in Spain.”
That dual mindset is important. Gallagher has not failed in La Liga, but the pull of English football remains strong, particularly when clubs promise central roles.
Gallagher is not the only name under consideration. TEAMtalk confirm that Tottenham have “made discreet enquiries for Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton,” signalling a broader strategy rather than a single target fixation.
There is also the unresolved situation surrounding Joao Palhinha. Tottenham “still have not made a decision” on whether to trigger the £26m option to buy from Bayern Munich. That call is expected later, leaving Spurs juggling short term needs and long term planning.
What TEAMtalk’s reporting highlights is a club seeking balance, quality, Premier League pedigree, and financial control, all while facing pressure from rivals acting decisively.
For Tottenham, Gallagher ticks many boxes fans have been asking for, intensity, leadership, and proven Premier League durability. He feels like a player who raises standards in training as much as on matchdays.
Supporters will be frustrated if Villa move faster and secure him. The sense of “now or never” resonates because Spurs fans have seen similar situations drift away before. Gallagher may not be glamorous, but he embodies reliability, something this midfield has lacked at times.
There is also realism. Wages matter. Tottenham fans understand the need for structure, but they will question whether missing out on a prime age England international represents false economy.
If Spurs believe Gallagher improves the group immediately, hesitation will feel costly. Fans want clarity, either commit or step aside. What they crave most is direction, and this situation feels like a test of resolve.









































