Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher Saga: What’s Next for the Midfielder?
Chelsea have made it clear that Conor Gallagher won’t be training with the first-team squad when they return from their US tour on Monday. This development has sparked concerns about the midfielder’s future at Stamford Bridge. So, what’s going on?
Gallagher, who joined Chelsea at the age of eight, was a standout performer under Mauricio Pochettino last season, starting 37 Premier League games. He even earned a spot in Gareth Southgate’s final 26-man squad for Euro 2024 and featured in four games for the Three Lions.
However, ahead of the new campaign, Gallagher’s future at Chelsea has been plunged into doubt. The midfielder has turned down two contract offers from the Blues, including a two-year extension, as he takes issue with the length of the deals. In short, he wants a contract that reflects his current status.
A number of clubs have expressed interest in Gallagher this summer, including Aston Villa. In fact, SPORTbible understands Villa expressed their interest in June and a club-record deal with Chelsea was agreed, but Gallagher turned down the move. Chelsea have also accepted an offer from La Liga side Atletico Madrid, worth around £33 million.
It’s worth noting that Gallagher is open to staying at Chelsea if he’s offered a longer-term deal. However, there are concerns from the club as they don’t expect him to be a regular starter under Enzo Maresca, who recently added Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall to his squad on a six-year deal.
Chelsea, meanwhile, appear intent on cashing in on Gallagher if they can’t agree terms, as they don’t want to lose him on a free transfer in 2025.
Earlier this week, Maresca admitted that Gallagher could leave Stamford Bridge, conceding that "anything could happen" this summer. "At the moment, Conor will be back with us at Cobham," Maresca said. "He will be in Cobham in the next days. If the transfer window is open, anything can happen. Not only for Conor but for all of the players."
Back in June, Gallagher opened up on the prospect of working under their new manager. "We want to get Chelsea back to where they belong. So hopefully with the new manager we can start to progress and get to where we belong," he said.
What’s Next for Gallagher?
With Chelsea’s stance on Gallagher’s contract and the midfielder’s desire for a longer-term deal, it’s clear that his future at Stamford Bridge is uncertain. Will he stay and fight for a starting spot, or will he opt for a fresh start elsewhere? Only time will tell.
Stay Up-to-Date with the Latest Transfer News
Follow us on all social media platforms for more updates on Conor Gallagher’s future and the latest transfer news from around the world!