Atletico Madrid are weighing up their options as they look to bolster their midfield this summer, with Matt O’Riley on their list.

Chelsea’s Connor Gallagher is also a top option for the Spanish side, according to renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

🔴⚪️ Understand Atlético Madrid remain the most interested club in Conor Gallagher this summer.

Atléti have made contact with Chelsea for Gallagher as he’s one of the names in the shortlist.

Not an easy deal as still expensive — but Atlético interest is genuine. pic.twitter.com/GxubIkZBfR

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 8, 2024

However, the financial demands for Gallagher might prove to be a stumbling block, potentially shifting their focus back to Matt O’Riley as a more feasible alternative.

Previously, Atletico had bid around £20 million for O’Riley in January, but Celtic rejected the offer, valuing the midfielder closer to £30 million. With Chelsea potentially demanding upwards of £50 million for Gallagher, O’Riley’s comparatively lower price tag becomes increasingly attractive for the Spanish club. [The Sun]

We wrote last month how this was a link to keep an eye on, and it’s turning out to turn into a little saga.

Romano has said that a deal for Gallagher could be difficult because of the finances, therefore, Atletico Madrid might be forced into meeting Celtic’s valuation, which is still £20 million lower than Gallagher’s.