Aston Villa’s search for midfield reinforcements has taken an unexpected turn after the club missed out on Conor Gallagher, with reports now linking a Real Madrid star to a potential shock move to Villa Park.
Unai Emery’s side had been actively pursuing Gallagher as they looked to strengthen their squad for a sustained push at the top end of the Premier League, but plans changed swiftly once Tottenham secured the midfielder’s signature.
Villa appeared well-placed to land Gallagher earlier in the window, only for the former Chelsea man to opt for a return to the Premier League with Spurs following his stint at Atletico Madrid.
The 25-year-old completed a move worth around £35 million, leaving Villa forced to reassess their options in a highly competitive market.
Gallagher deal collapse forces Villa rethink
Gallagher had left Chelsea for Atletico Madrid in August 2024, and after 18 months in Spain, made his way back to England with Tottenham. His arrival comes at a crucial time for Spurs, particularly with Rodrigo Bentancur sidelined for three months due to injury.
Speaking after completing his move, Gallagher said, “I'm so happy and excited to be here, taking the next step in my career at an amazing club. I wanted to be a Spurs player and thankfully the club felt the same. It was very easy, it happened very quickly and I'm ready to get on the pitch.” He added, “I know how great the fans are, I’m really happy to be a part of it here and want to create special moments and memories together.”
Tottenham head coach Thomas Frank echoed that enthusiasm, highlighting Gallagher’s leadership, work rate and experience across multiple leagues.
Real Madrid link adds surprise twist
With Gallagher off the table, Villa have reportedly turned their attention to an alternative midfield solution—this time from Real Madrid.
The potential move has raised eyebrows, given the gulf in stature between the two clubs, but it underlines Villa’s growing ambition under Emery.
Villa’s qualification for European competition and consistent improvement in recent seasons has enhanced their appeal, even to players at elite clubs.
A Real Madrid midfielder seeking more regular minutes could view Villa as a platform to revive or elevate their career, particularly in a system that places heavy emphasis on tactical discipline and technical quality.