Atlético Madrid announced on Wednesday the signing of midfielder Conor Gallagher from Chelsea, with the player committing to the club for the next five seasons, until June 30, 2029. This follows the completion of Joao Félix's transfer to the English club, which cleared the way for Gallagher's arrival.

"Beware of the pitbull," the club teased on its official channels before making the formal announcement.

Gallagher is Atlético's fourth reinforcement of the summer, following the signings of central defender Robin Le Normand and forwards Alexander Sorloth and Julián Álvarez. Gallagher had already been in Madrid two weeks ago to finalize his transfer, but the failed swap of Samu Omorodion forced him to return to London without sealing the deal.

Now, with Atlético sending Joao Félix to Chelsea instead of Omorodion, the English international has officially joined the squad and even trained under Diego Simeone this morning at the Ciudad Deportiva in Majadahonda.

Gallagher chose Atlético over a renewal offer from Chelsea, the club where he came through the academy before breaking into the first team in the 2022-23 season. He previously had loan spells at Charlton Athletic, Swansea, West Bromwich Albion, and Crystal Palace, where his impressive performances earned him a place back at Chelsea.

At 24, Gallagher leaves the London club after playing 95 matches over the last two seasons, starting 67 of them, with ten goals and ten assists.

During his first season back from Crystal Palace, he alternated between starting and coming off the bench. However, last season under Argentine coach Mauricio Pochettino, Gallagher solidified his place in the starting lineup, featuring in 50 matches (46 as a starter) and contributing seven goals and nine assists, showcasing his ability to drive into the opponent's box and create chances.

Gallagher has earned 18 caps for the England national team, including one start in the seven matches England played under Gareth Southgate in the last European Championship. He was also part of the squad for the 2022 Qatar World Cup but did not play a single minute as England were eliminated in the quarterfinals.