Tottenham could deploy £35m signing Conor Gallagher in three different roles under Thomas Frank.
Tottenham Hotspur are closing in on the signing of Conor Gallagher, and his adaptability could hand Thomas Frank multiple midfield solutions heading into the winter period.
Spurs appear set to land the Atletico Madrid midfielder after seeing off competition from Aston Villa. A reported €40m (£34.3m) fee for the 25-year-old could represent excellent value if Gallagher hits the ground running in north London.
With extensive Premier League experience from spells at Chelsea, West Brom and Crystal Palace, Gallagher would arrive with minimal adjustment needed — a major plus for Tottenham as they look to strengthen immediately.
Beyond his experience, Gallagher’s biggest asset is his versatility. He is comfortable operating in several roles, giving Frank added tactical freedom. Three positions, in particular, stand out where the England international could make a real impact.
Pivot role alongside Joao Palhinha
The most straightforward option would see Gallagher slot into the double pivot with Joao Palhinha, especially following Rodrigo Bentancur’s injury, which is expected to rule him out for at least three months. Bentancur typically operates as either the deeper holder or the more mobile partner in midfield, and Gallagher has the skill set to cover both roles. While he offers a similar work rate, Gallagher brings more attacking intent and a stronger goal threat from deep areas.
Box-to-box number eight
If Frank opts to use Gallagher as a number eight, his relentless energy becomes a major weapon. Gallagher excels at pressing, supporting attacks and recovering defensively, making him ideal as a box-to-box midfielder. This role could help Spurs during periods when they struggle to progress the ball and create chances. His ability to arrive late in the box as a third-man runner — while maintaining defensive shape — is particularly valuable. His numbers underline this effectiveness, with 36 goals and 29 assists across 237 appearances in central and defensive midfield roles.
Advanced number ten option
Tottenham are currently stretched in the number ten position, with Xavi Simons the only fully fit option. Injuries to James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski and Lucas Bergvall, combined with Pape Matar Sarr’s AFCON involvement, leave Frank short of creativity. Gallagher provides a reliable alternative. He has made 68 appearances as an attacking midfielder, contributing nine goals and 13 assists, showing he can both create and finish chances higher up the pitch.
Left-sided role
Although not his natural position, Gallagher can also operate from the left when required. He has featured 22 times on the left flank and 14 on the right, producing five goals and four assists from wide areas. Frank’s preference for a 4-2-2-2 system could suit Gallagher perfectly, allowing him to start wide before drifting inside to support central areas. This hybrid role would give Spurs balance and control, blending Gallagher’s central instincts with his willingness to cover wide spaces.
Overall, Gallagher’s arrival would give Thomas Frank a valuable all-rounder capable of solving multiple tactical problems — a flexibility that could prove crucial as Spurs navigate the challenges of the winter schedule.
