Micky van de Ven and Xavi Simons instantly react as Tottenham confirm first January signing

Tottenham have kick-started their January transfer business with the signing of Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid.

After attempting to sign the all-action midfielder in the summer, Spurs have finally captured Gallagher for £34million and Thomas Frank will be delighted.

Gallagher has penned a five-and-a-half year contract at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and becomes their first signing of the window.

The 25-year-old – who left Chelsea to join the Spanish giants in 2024 – has become the latest player to represent both clubs.

We are delighted to announce the signing of Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid, subject to international clearance ✍️

🔗 https://t.co/jmiovICICt pic.twitter.com/NScayD72LZ— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) January 14, 2026

Tottenham announce Conor Gallagher signing

Gallagher’s main motivation behind leaving Atletico Madrid was due to not playing as much as he would liked under Diego Simeone, having only started four times in La Liga this term.

However, following Rodrigo Bentancur’s long-term injury, the Englishman is likely to be a regular starter under Frank, and supporters will be excited to see him in action.

In a video posted on Tottenham’s official Instagram page, Gallagher simply said: “I’m Conor Gallagher, I’m here to give everything.”

The video was accompanied by floods of replies, mainly from Spurs supporters and opposition fans, but it was also liked by new teammates Micky van de Ven and Xavi Simons.

Undoubtedly excited to play with the quality midfielder, Gallagher will hope to make his first appearance for the club when Tottenham host West Ham on Saturday.

• Read More: Mathys Tel and Radu Dragusin exit news shared at Tottenham after Conor Gallagher deal agreed

What Thomas Frank said about Gallagher’s arrival

Gallagher made a name for himself during his time at Chelsea, and many fans were surprised when he was sold to Atletico Madrid in 2024.

The England international ranked second for assists during the 2023/24 campaign for the Blues, as well as first for duels won and second for chances created.

Capable of adding goals at the top end of the pitch and winning possession back for his name, there’s no wonder Mauricio Pochettino rates Gallagher highly, and as does Frank.

Speaking after his arrival, the Spurs boss said: “Conor is a top midfielder, who we have worked tirelessly to add to our squad.

“He is still young, so has plenty of room for improvement, but also has huge experience across the Premier League, La Liga and with the England national team.

“Conor has captained teams so will bring leadership, maturity, character and personality to our dressing room, while his running power, pressing ability and eye for goal will strengthen us in a key area of the pitch.

“I’m excited about working with him every day and I know the fans will love what he will bring to the team.”

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