Conor Gallagher’s impending transfer from Chelsea to Atletico Madrid is poised to set off a domino effect in the transfer market that could significantly impact Celtic, especially regarding midfielder Matt O’Riley.

Gallagher has reportedly agreed to personal terms with Atletico Madrid and is set to undergo a medical, finalising his move to the Spanish club, Fabrizio Romano reports. This development not only ends Atletico Madrid’s potential interest in O’Riley, whom they had previously bid £18 million for in January but also propels Chelsea into the market for a new midfielder.

With Gallagher’s departure, Chelsea is now linked with O’Riley as a possible replacement. Speculations over the weekend suggested that Chelsea might be preparing to make a formal bid for O’Riley, who has been valued by the Scottish champions at over £25 million. This places Chelsea in direct competition with Brighton, who have reportedly met Celtic’s valuation with a bid exceeding £25 million after inquiring about the player’s price earlier in the week.

For Celtic, this creates a situation. This could lead to a bidding war on their hands, which could drive up the transfer fee.

Celtic may opt to stall with Brighton in case Chelsea comes calling. Only time will tell.