Tottenham are closing in on the signing of Atletico Madrid star Conor Gallagher.

football.london revealed on Sunday that Spurs stepped up their pursuit for the former Chelsea favourite despite strong interest from Premier League rivals Aston Villa.

The north Londoners escalated their search for a new midfielder on Monday after it was confirmed that Rodrigo Bentancur requires hamstring surgery and is set to miss at least three months of action.

Spurs and Atletico are understood to have now agreed a deal worth around €40million (£34.7m), with Villa never striking a formal agreement with the Spanish giants.

Gallagher will travel to London early this week to undergo a medical and finalise the transfer. He's expected to sign a long-term contract, with personal terms not expected to be an issue.

football.london understands Atletico preferred to sell the 25-year-old permanently this month rather than a loan with a view or obligation to buy in the summer.

Spurs' apparent success in landing Gallagher will be a big blow for Villa, with Unai Emery short of midfield options due to...