- Chelsea is working to prevent Conor Gallagher from being sidelined
- Gallagher is willing to remain but desires a contract that truly represents his value
- Atletico Madrid is urging Gallagher to make a decision regarding his future by the weekend
Chelsea has informed Conor Gallagher that he does not align with Enzo Maresca’s possession-based approach and is unlikely to be a starting player under the new head coach. The two sides are engaged in discussions to prevent the England star from being marginalized.
Atletico Madrid has had a £34.1 million offer accepted for the 24-year-old, and they are seeking a response from Gallagher by the weekend. While there are indications he may remain, reports suggest he could be required to train separately if he chooses that path.
The club has not confirmed this scenario as the team tours the United States; however, it is known that if Gallagher opts to fulfill the last year of his contract at Stamford Bridge, his role in Maresca’s midfield would be minimal.
During a meeting at their Cobham training facility on Friday, Gallagher expressed his willingness to discuss a long-term contract akin to those of several of his teammates. Chelsea has recalled him from his holiday as talks regarding his future transpired.
Nevertheless, Chelsea’s most favorable offer remains a two-year contract with an option for a third, reflecting their belief that his long-term prospects are not with the club. Gallagher, who joined Chelsea’s youth academy at age six, has already declined this proposition twice in recent months.
Chelsea are engaged in discussions with Conor Gallagher to prevent him from being sidelined
Gallagher, seen here on a prior vacation with Áine May Kennedy, had his recent holiday interrupted by the club’s demands
Gallagher, who declined the opportunity to join Aston Villa, may not be a fit for Maresca’s (right) strategy
Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid is looking for Gallagher to make a decision about his future before this weekend
The proposition remains available; however, Chelsea believes it is an opportune moment for their academy product to depart in pursuit of the playing time he seeks. They have cautioned him that continuing with the squad as a bench player could threaten his England career.
Chelsea traveled to Columbus on Friday for their U.S. tour while this complicated situation unfolded back in London. They are scheduled to play Manchester City on Saturday night, but Gallagher, along with Cole Palmer and Marc Cucurella, will not be present due to extended breaks following their participation in the Euro 2024 final, where England was defeated by Spain.
The club has already accepted bids for Gallagher from both Aston Villa and Atletico Madrid.
Chelsea previously extended a two-year contract offer that included an option for a third year after accepting a £57.5 million offer from Aston Villa in June; however, Gallagher declined that offer. Atletico is now awaiting his verdict.
Maresca’s midfield lineup includes Enzo Fernandez, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Moises Caicedo, and Romeo Lavia, all of whom are considered ahead of Gallagher in terms of selection.
This is despite Gallagher’s critical role last season under Mauricio Pochettino, where he served as captain in Reece James’s absence and started 37 of 38 Premier League matches. He was invaluable to Pochettino due to his ball-winning ability, and fans honored him with a massive banner on the season’s concluding day. Prior to that, he had a successful loan at Crystal Palace, which helped him earn a spot on the England team.
Todd Boehly and associates are aware of the necessity to enhance the club’s PSR situation
Despite this, Maresca has not concealed his intentions to introduce a style that emphasizes quick passing, and Chelsea does not believe Gallagher fits into that mold.
Gallagher’s attributes may be beneficial to Atletico under Diego Simeone, with interest also previously shown by Tottenham and West Ham. Chelsea’s preference is to transfer him to a European club rather than a domestic rival. Individuals close to Gallagher indicate that all options are being considered, and despite Atletico’s deadline, he aims to avoid hasty decisions.
Gallagher has consistently expressed his wish to remain at Chelsea, provided a contract aligns with his worth and mutual commitment.
Tottenham has not yet entered the discussions as they focus on acquiring a striker but are keeping an eye on the situation.
