Samu Omorodion Transfer to Chelsea Falls Through as Conor Gallagher and Julian Alvarez Moves to Atletico Madrid Are in Jeopardy
Chelsea’s anticipated acquisition of Atletico Madrid forward Samu Omorodion has hit a snag, leading to uncertainty regarding Conor Gallagher's potential move to the Spanish club. The Blues had initially secured a £34.5 million agreement for Omorodion, a deal that would have seen Gallagher head to Atletico for £36 million on a five-year contract. Gallagher had already completed his medical and was even spotted visiting Atletico's Wanda Metropolitano stadium.
However, due to contractual complications, the deal for Omorodion has now collapsed. Both Chelsea and Atletico Madrid are reportedly exploring alternative options, including a possible return to London for Joao Felix, who had a loan spell at Stamford Bridge in 2023, in an effort to salvage the situation.
Impact on Atletico Madrid's Transfer Plans
Omorodion's move to Chelsea would have necessitated a replacement at Atletico Madrid, and the club had set its sights on Manchester City's Julian Alvarez. Atletico had agreed to an £82 million deal for the Argentine striker, a move that was meant to fill the gap left by Omorodion's departure. Despite the ongoing issues with Omorodion's transfer, Manchester City still expects the Alvarez deal to proceed as planned.
Alvarez, fresh from his post-Copa America break, is believed to have arrived in Madrid to undergo a medical examination ahead of the proposed transfer.
Transfer Market Movements
As part of their summer transfer activities, Chelsea has been active, bringing in several new talents. The club has already signed Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Filip Jorgensen, Omari Kellyman, Aaron Anselmino, Renato Veiga, Caleb Wiley, Marc Guiu, and Tosin Adarabioyo. Additionally, a deal has been secured for Palmeiras' young talent, Estevao Willian, although he will not join the team until the following summer. Omorodion, who impressed with eight goals in 35 LaLiga appearances during his loan spell at Deportivo Alaves last season, was expected to be another key addition.
Conor Gallagher's Future Uncertain
Gallagher's future at Chelsea remains in limbo following the collapse of the Omorodion deal. The midfielder had been on the radar of two other top-six Premier League clubs, with Chelsea previously accepting a bid from Aston Villa—a move that Gallagher ultimately turned down. Tottenham has also shown interest in the player. Meanwhile, Chelsea has struggled to reach an agreement with Gallagher on new contract terms, raising the possibility of him leaving Stamford Bridge.
Armando Broja's Potential Move
In other transfer news, Chelsea striker Armando Broja is reportedly "ready to move" to Stuttgart, with early talks between the two clubs underway, according to Sky Germany. Broja has also been linked with Everton and Southampton, who have him on their shortlists as they look to bolster their attacking options.
As the transfer window progresses, the situation remains fluid, with several high-profile moves hanging in the balance. All eyes are now on how Chelsea, Atletico Madrid, and Manchester City will navigate these complex negotiations in the coming days.