Conor Gallagher has turned down a new three-year contract extension with Chelsea – offered to him in early June and again as recently as Wednesday – amid talk of a £33.7million move to Atletico Madrid.
The two-year deal with the option of a third would have boosted the England international to a salary comparable to those of the highest earners in Chelsea’s midfield.
He also previously turned down interest in an extension in 2022 due to his desire to play games.
Chelsea understood that stance at that time, but he then turned into a regular starter throughout the 2023-24 season under Mauricio Pochettino, often wearing the captain’s armband in Reece James’s absence.
There is a suspicion that Gallagher wants to join Atletico, who have agreed terms on a transfer with Chelsea believed to be worth £33.7m plus add ons.
Conor Gallagher has turned down a contract offer from Chelsea amid interest from Atletico Madrid
The Blues are now willing to help him see through that move if he tells them that is his desire, as they would rather he join a European club over a direct Premier League rival.
Aston Villa submitted a club-record bid in June which was understood to be superior to the terms on offer from Atletico, but Gallagher decided to stay.