According to the Telegraph, Tottenham Hotspur are contemplating a potential move for Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher this summer.
Gallagher has progressed through Chelsea’s youth system, spending 11 years in the club’s academy before signing his first professional contract in 2019. Subsequently, he gained valuable experience on loan at Charlton Athletic, Swansea City, West Bromwich Albion, and Crystal Palace.
Gallagher began to make a name for himself during his time at Palace, scoring eight goals and providing three assists in 34 league appearances.
The midfielder’s impressive performances at Crystal Palace caught the attention of England manager Gareth Southgate, who awarded him his first international cap in November 2021.
Despite being included in the Three Lions squad for the previous year’s World Cup, Gallagher did not feature in any of the team’s matches.
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In the last season, he struggled to make a significant impact as he was primarily used in a rotational role, starting 18 league games and making 17 substitute appearances.
However, Mauricio Pochettino is keen to provide Gallagher with an opportunity to compete for a regular place in the team during the upcoming season.
If Chelsea decides to sell Gallagher, Tottenham Hotspur could become his next destination as the club is seeking midfield options.
With Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg potentially heading to Atletico Madrid, Spurs may require fresh faces in midfield. Hojbjerg has been a regular presence since joining the club in 2020, amassing 145 appearances across all competitions.
Gallagher is seen as having a similar profile to Hojbjerg, possessing energy, physicality, and skill on the ball. If Hojbjerg departs, Gallagher could naturally step in as his replacement.
The valuation for the England international could reach up to £50 million. While Newcastle United was previously linked with Gallagher, their interest was limited to a loan deal.
Tottenham have already made additions to their midfield this summer with the signings of James Maddison and Manor Solomon. They also have Tanguy Ndombele and Giovani Lo Celso returning from loan spells, and Rodrigo Bentancur recovering from injury.
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Consequently, Gallagher could become part of a mass exodus at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea’s significant spending in the previous year has resulted in an inflated squad, necessitating a clear-out.
Players such as Kai Havertz, Mason Mount, Mateo Kovacic, Kalidou Koulibaly, Edouard Mendy, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek have already been sold, while N’Golo Kante and Cesar Azpilicueta have departed on free transfers.
Further departures, including Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Christian Pulisic, Hakim Ziyech, and Callum Hudson-Odoi, are expected before the end of the transfer window.