Tottenham are exploring the market for a midfielder after discovering Rodrigo Bentancur is expected to miss most of the season with a hamstring injury - but have been told they cannot sign Conor Gallagher on loan without a clear obligation to buy. The Uruguay international is likely to face surgery on an injury he sustained in last week's 3-2 Premier League loss at Bournemouth. Spurs have asked Atletico Madrid about the possibility of bringing in Gallagher - but the Spanish club have said a straight loan deal is not on the table. They are only willing to consider a permanent move - or a loan deal with a clear obligation to buy. They are back in action against West Ham United on Saturday in the Premier League before travelling to Dortmund for a Champions League clash a week on Tuesday.

Source: Metro January 12, 2026 18:08 UTC