ATLETICO MADRID have announced the arrival of Conor Gallagher.
The midfielder has finally completed a £34million switch from Chelsea after being frozen out at Stamford Bridge.
Conor Gallagher has completed a £34million move to Atletico MadridAtletico Madrid
And the Spanish giants announced the capture with a cartoon drawing of an animal, captioning the post: “Beware of the pitbull.”
Gallagher, 24, has already started training where he has been re-united with former Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta, who has helped translate instructions.
Gallagher was subject to a bid from Atletico earlier this month amid interest from Aston Villa.
He even flew to Madrid to finalise the transfer, only for it to collapse as Samu Omorodion turned down the proposed swap deal.
That left Gallagher in limbo and the midfielder was forced to return to London while the clubs thrashed out a deal.
Gallagher had met Atletico chiefs, players and even had a tour of the Metropolitano stadium before flying back.
Chelsea rescued the deal by offering £40m to sign Joao Felix.
Felix arrived in London on Tuesday and underwent a medical ahead of putting pen to paper on a six-year deal, with the option of a further year.
The Blues paid tribute to Gallagher and thanked him for his service following his departure after 18 years at the club.
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Gallagher was a key player for Chelsea last season
Gallagher’s open letter to fans
“To everyone at Chelsea, thank you for making my dreams come true. It’s been an absolute honour every time I put on the shirt, and it was a dream come true to captain the team on many occasions.
“I loved every moment. These memories will last forever. I appreciate all the love and support from the fans. Hearing the chant of my name at the Bridge is a special feeling, and the banner you displayed [against Spurs] meant the world to me.
“Thank you for everything. I wish the club all the best for the future, and I hope to see you all soon at Stamford Bridge.”
Prior to his move Gallagher was placed in Chelsea’s ‘bomb squad’ – a group of players frozen out as the club tried to find ways to move them on.
The England star was banished from the first-team squad, meaning he was not allowed to train with manager Enzo Maresca or even enter the first-team building.
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