Chelsea have received enquiries from three Premier League clubs – including Crystal Palace – for Conor Gallagher, it has been revealed.
Gallagher finally made his Chelsea debut at the weekend after more than a decade in the academy and four loan spells away. The midfielder came on as a late substitute in a 1-0 win over Everton in their first Premier League fixture this season.
Gallagher made an impact in the competition while on loan with Crystal Palace last season. Across 34 top-flight appearances, he scored eight goals. He also became a full England international in the process.
As the 2021-22 season ended, Gallagher became the subject of much speculation about his future? Would he stay with Crystal Palace on a permanent basis? Would another suitor make a more appealing move for him? Or would Chelsea reintegrate him?
As things stand, the latter is happening. But links are continuing for Gallagher, whose contract with Chelsea is due to last until 2025.
According to 90min, he has been the subject of a fresh enquiry from Crystal Palace about taking him back to Selhurst Park. In addition, West Ham and Newcastle have asked if he could be available.
Some have asked about the chances of another loan deal, whereas other enquiries have been about a permanent one. It is not specified which formula is favoured by which clubs.
However, the report adds that Chelsea currently do not have any plans to let go of Gallagher again. Thomas Tuchel remains keen to continue working with him.
In turn, the 22-year-old is willing to fight for his place, while acknowledging he may not play as regularly as he did with Palace.
The only way the strategy could change is if Chelsea bring in a new midfield signing of their own. Then, they may have to consider lending Gallagher away again in order to prevent any stagnation of his development.
For now, though, he is in contention to compete for a role in Tuchel’s system.
Would anywhere be better than Chelsea for Conor Gallagher?
Any of the three clubs to have enquired about Gallagher would be worth considering, if it came to it.
He already understands what it takes to thrive for Palace, while he could be the creative spark Newcastle need as their own project grows.
As for West Ham, a move would allow him to play in the Europa Conference League (should they get through the play-offs) without uprooting from London.
But if Tuchel has an idea of how he can use Gallagher, it may well be time to stick with Chelsea. This could be a big season to see if he is up to the standard required.
It will be over to Gallagher to prove himself, but if he has that self-belief, then he could show Chelsea the player he has become. And if it doesn’t work out, other clubs are unlikely to forget about his obvious talents.
He will be hoping it doesn’t get to that stage just yet, though. The 2022-23 campaign is just getting started and it could be crucial for Gallagher.