Diego Simeone and Atletico Madrid legend tell Tottenham what to expect from Conor Gallagher after deal agreed

Tottenham are said to be close to announcing a deal to sign Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid after beating Aston Villa to the punch. Spurs need bodies after being hit with a number of injuries over recent weeks, including a fresh blow that has seen Rodrigo Bentancur ruled out for up to three months.

It was confirmed on Tuesday morning that Bentancur has undergone surgery on his right hamstring, and that surgery is likely to keep him out until deep into the spring.

With James Maddison also out for much of - if not all of - the season, Tottenham are desperate for a midfielder who can be the engine of the team while also creating chances at the top end of the pitch. Gallagher can offer that, and he is set to return to England after a deal worth around £35million was agreed.

The England international has played regularly this season, but largely as a substitute, with the summer arrival of Spain international Alex Baena not helping his cause. Although, Diego Simeone was complimentary of Gallagher when speaking towards the end of last season.

"When we think of him we think of his youth, energy and intensity in the game. He also strikes the ball very well," Simeone said.

"It's never easy for players coming from England to adapt to the Spanish league, to the language. He has competed very well in different places and in positions where he doesn't feel more comfortable. He will evolve, he has room for growth. He is very intense in offensive and defensive play, he brings a lot to us."

Diego Godin’s take

Atleti legend Diego Godin also offered a verdict on Gallagher’s influence towards the end of last season, telling Sky Sports: "I think that Conor Gallagher is going through a period of adaptation.

”We know that he has come to a new country, a new language, and he has also got to adapt to the style of play that Simeone is looking for. But, in general, I would say that all great players have required a period of adaptation at Atletico.

“Diego Costa exploded in his third season. More recently, De Paul has gone from being booed to becoming a fan favourite. They always end up becoming really important players. I am sure that Gallagher is going to be important for Atletico.

"He is not starting every match but that does not mean he is not important. Simeone's philosophy has always been that what matters is not that players amass a huge number of minutes but to ensure that the minutes they do play are of maximum quality.”

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