Chelsea 'enter' bidding war for shock Conor Gallagher replacement as Atletico Madrid move edges closer

Chelsea are reported to have sounded out a potential replacement for midfielder Conor Gallagher.

The 24-year-old is said to have snubbed the Blues advances of a new three-year deal with Atletico Madrid said to be interested in the England international.

Enzo Maresca's side have already recruited well with seven players having arrived at Stamford Bridge, with another move now cited.

According to reports from Sky Sports, Celtic midfielder Matt O'Riley is liked by the hierachy at Chelsea.

The 23-year-old scored 18 goals to help Brendan Rodgers' side to another Scottish Premiership title in 2023/24.

Fellow Premier League side Southampton, who have already had a £14 million bid for the Denmark international rejected, are also showing interest in the talented midfielder.

Gallagher is said to be closing in on a move to La Liga, with a transfer worth £34m cited in recent days.

It is worth noting a sale for the Three Lions international would count against the Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rulings.

Conor Gallagher captained Chelsea on Saturday (Image: Getty)

Gallagher featured for England at Euro 2024 this summer and did insist there was work to be done to clear up his contract situation.

Despite having played 50 time for the Blues last term, Gallagher looks to be heading for the exit door.

"I am a Chelsea player right now. Like I said, I am thinking about England and the tournament," said Gallagher earlier this summer, when quizzed on his future at Stamford Bridge.

"I've been focusing on England. This is the most important thing right now for me. I just want to start the tournament now."

Gallagher came through the ranks at Chelsea and progressed into a pivotal part of former manager Mauricio Pochettino's plans last season.

New manager Maresca did provide an update on the situation last week, insisting he has no new news on the matter.

He said: "The only thing I can say is I know he is in contact with the club to find a solution. The club offered him a new contract. But this is, at the moment, the only news I received.

"Also because they know that when we are in competition or working, I like to be focused on what we have here. That is, in this moment, this game and then the Real Madrid game."

Maresca added: "For me as a manager, it is the most important thing. Just to focus on the most important thing that is the pitch."