Chelsea Football Club is set to hold imminent talks with midfielder Conor Gallagher, aiming to swiftly resolve his future. The club has offered Gallagher a fresh contract proposal, but Atletico Madrid is waiting in the wings to complete a £33 million transfer.
Chelsea has proposed a two-year deal with a 12-month option for Gallagher. This offer would place him among the club's highest-earning midfield players. However, it seems that his playing time might be limited next season due to changes in team strategy and style of play.
Atletico Madrid has shown keen interest in acquiring the 24-year-old player and have agreed on a £33 million deal with Chelsea before add-ons. Despite this agreement, Gallagher remains undecided about moving to Wanda Metropolitano and hasn't yet discussed personal terms with Diego Simeone's side. The Blues are pressing for a quick decision from Gallagher who has already turned down three contract proposals from them. Atletico wants an answer by the end of the weekend or they may pursue other targets. Meanwhile, Chelsea remains firm on not letting their industrious midfielder leave without cost.
Limited opportunities at Stamford Bridge
Gallagher was informed that he would only serve as a squad player in Chelsea squad next season if he chooses to stay at Stamford Bridge - one reason why they haven't offered him an extended contract. Enzo Maresca’s newly-implemented possession-based style of play doesn’t seem well-suited for Gallagher which could limit his opportunities moving forward despite being an integral part under Mauricio Pochettino last season.
Interestingly, Aston Villa had agreed on a club-record deal for Gallagher back in June but was rejected by the player himself.
Enzo Maresca, Chelsea manager, said:
"To be honest, I do not know nothing. We will see him when we go back there [to Cobham]. I know when I met the club for the first time that there was interest in him. Today, I was focused on the game."
Many clubs interested
Spurs also has a long-standing admiration for Gallagher, but they haven't formalised their interest yet. Despite the uncertainty, Gallagher's preference has always been to stay at Chelsea and fight for his place. However, he will be shown the door if he does not agree to fresh terms.
Chelsea is also interested in signing a striker and another winger before the transfer window closes. There could be further adjustments to Maresca's squad depending on departures.
Conor Gallagher’s future at Chelsea hangs in balance as showdown talks are scheduled with Atletico Madrid waiting eagerly for a decision. The coming days will reveal whether Gallagher stays at Stamford Bridge or moves on to new challenges.
