Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher is set to join Atletico Madrid, and it looks like the Spanish club’s manager Diego Simeone has played a big role.

Coming through the club’s academy, Conor Gallagher probably would have wanted to stay in west London.

However, after failing to agree a new deal with Chelsea, an exit has become inevitable. The 24-year-old is into the final 12 months of his contract and the Blues will not want to lose him for nothing next summer.

Really, it has just been about what club Gallagher would end up at. Aston Villa actually agreed a deal with Chelsea to sign the Englishman, but he has opted to join Atletico instead.

And if any Atletico fan really wanted Gallagher at the Civitas Metropolitano, then they have Simeone to thank.

Any fears Gallagher had about leaving Stamford Bridge for the Civitas Metropolitano, Simeone seems to have quashed them.

According to The Telegraph, after a hectic weekend of talks, Gallagher and Atletico finally reached a verbal agreement on Monday morning.

The same outlet claims that Simeone has told the England international that he sees him as a key component and believes he will be perfect for his system and style.

You would imagine that that has helped convince Gallagher to join Atletico, with the player unlikely to be a starter at Chelsea this season.

Enzo Maresca has Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, Romeo Lavia and new signing Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall for the midfield positions.

Trevoh Chalobah likely to follow Conor Gallagher out of exit door

Once Gallagher departs, you would expect Chelsea to turn their attention on Trevoh Chalobah.

Chalobah is not part of the club’s plans after being left out of their pre-season tour. Tosin Adarabioyo has come in to replace Chalobah, in effect, and is one of many options Maresca has at the back.

Ultimately, from Chelsea’s point of view, they feel there is no room for Chalobah, who now needs to find a new club.

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