Nottingham Forest to HIJACK Everton Target Who Jurgen Klopp Called ‘Special’.

Nottingham Forest are preparing an ambitious swoop that could send shockwaves across the Premier League, as they look to hijack a deal for a highly-rated midfielder once dubbed “special” by Jurgen Klopp. With Everton believed to be in pole position for the player, Forest’s late move could change everything.

The midfielder in question is none other than Conor Gallagher, a tenacious and energetic talent who rose through Chelsea’s youth ranks and has caught the attention of Europe’s elite following a solid campaign with Atlético Madrid. While Everton have been pushing hard to secure his signature, it now appears Nottingham Forest are stepping in with a firm belief they can beat the Toffees to his signing.

Sources close to the deal suggest that Forest have already initiated direct talks with Gallagher’s representatives, with a lucrative financial package on the table. The East Midlands side are reportedly ready to match or exceed Everton’s proposal, while also offering a guaranteed central role in the team—something that might appeal to Gallagher ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season.

Everton, battling with ongoing financial difficulties and a need to rebuild under Sean Dyche, had seen Gallagher as the centerpiece of their midfield revamp. His tireless running, vision in transition, and leadership qualities would have been pivotal at Goodison Park. Yet, with Forest now entering the race, they may have to either increase their offer or pivot to alternative targets.

Gallagher, 24, has had a turbulent few seasons. After leaving Chelsea in the summer of 2024 for a reported £34 million move to Atlético Madrid, he found minutes hard to come by under Diego Simeone. Despite registering 50 appearances in all competitions, only 27 of those were starts. Still, he impressed in flashes, including a notable goal in the Champions League derby against Real Madrid.

Even in a squad full of international stars, Gallagher stood out for his commitment and grit. His ability to win tackles, make key interceptions, and drive forward with the ball earned him plaudits from fans and pundits alike. Diego Simeone once remarked that Gallagher “embodies the spirit of Atleti,” while Jurgen Klopp previously called him a “special young player” during his Chelsea days.

It’s no surprise then that he remains a wanted man in the Premier League. Newcastle United were also linked, and while their recent focus has shifted to Anthony Elanga and potential big-money targets in midfield, Gallagher continues to be discussed as a viable option. However, Forest’s late push might catch everyone off guard.

New manager Nuno Espírito Santo has been quietly rebuilding his squad with a mixture of youth and experience. Adding a player of Gallagher’s caliber would signal serious intent and possibly help the club take the next step toward mid-table stability or even an outside shot at European qualification. Gallagher’s dynamism could complement Forest’s current midfield setup, which often lacks bite and forward thrust.

From a tactical perspective, Gallagher fits perfectly into Forest’s high-energy style. His pressing stats and work rate are among the best in his age group. Last season at Atleti, he ranked in the top ten in La Liga for ball recoveries and successful tackles. These are the types of qualities Forest have lacked in their engine room, especially in games where they need to control the midfield.

Financially, the proposed deal wouldn’t come cheap. Atlético Madrid are said to value him at around £50 million, though they aren’t actively looking to sell. However, the Spanish giants may be tempted by a solid offer that allows them to reinvest elsewhere—especially given Gallagher is not a guaranteed starter in their system.

The question remains: will Gallagher be willing to take what many perceive as a step down from Champions League football to join a club fighting in the lower half of the Premier League? On paper, it might seem like a downgrade. But with the promise of regular football, a leadership role, and the chance to re-establish himself as a future England regular, the move could make perfect sense.

Gareth Southgate has consistently included Gallagher in England squads, despite his fluctuating club form. A Premier League return—especially to a club where he can thrive—would only enhance his chances of starting at Euro 2028. For that reason, Forest’s offer might prove more appealing than Everton’s more cautious approach.

Another major factor in this potential hijack is timing. Forest are looking to move quickly, knowing that other clubs—Newcastle and even Tottenham—may return for Gallagher before the window shuts. If they can seal the deal early, they not only get their man but also send a clear message to their rivals.

With the transfer window heating up, this deal could become one of the most talked-about moves of the summer. For now, Nottingham Forest fans will be hoping their club can pull off what would undoubtedly be one of their most ambitious signings in recent history.

Should the deal go through, Gallagher will become the centerpiece of Forest’s midfield—a leader, a workhorse, and a symbol of a club on the rise. For Everton, missing out on their primary midfield target would be a bitter pill to swallow and one that may force them back to the drawing board.

Whatever the outcome, one thing is clear: the race for Conor Gallagher is far from over. And with Forest now firmly in the mix, Everton are no longer in the driver’s seat.

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