Tottenham have now agreed to match Atletico Madrid’s £34.6million valuation for Conor Gallagher after seeing an earlier attempt to secure him on loan knocked back today.
Aston Villa, by contrast, have so far only put forward a loan proposal that includes an obligation to buy.
As of 7.15pm, Gallagher has not yet been granted approval to enter talks over personal terms with Tottenham.
Negotiations are expected to pick up pace as the evening goes on, with Spurs’ ownership group based in the USA.
Tottenham began surveying the market for midfield reinforcements after learning that Rodrigo Bentancur is set to miss the bulk of the campaign due to a hamstring problem.
The 28-year-old’s absence leaves Spurs severely light in central midfield, with Lucas Bergvall also sidelined through injury and no clear return date established.
When Spurs initially approached Atletico about the possibility of landing Gallagher, they were informed that a straight loan was not an option. The Spanish side are only open to a permanent transfer or a loan agreement that carries a firm obligation to buy.
Spurs hijack Gallagher deal:
It remains unclear how Villa will react to this latest development. Given their ongoing concerns around UEFA and Premier League financial rules, they may be forced to concede defeat.
David Ornstein appears to have underlined that stance, suggesting Villa are keen to stick to financial prudence. He also challenges the notion that there was ever a formal agreement in place with Atletico or Gallagher.
Despite Tottenham’s struggles in form, Gallagher is prepared to complete a move to North London. With Bentancur facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, the former Chelsea midfielder would be expected to slot straight into the starting XI.
That prospect is vital for Gallagher, who is eager to secure a place in England’s World Cup squad. Remaining at Atletico, where he was unable to cement a regular starting role, would have seriously harmed his hopes of making Thomas Tuchel’s selection.