Chelsea transfer roundup for 19 July to 25 July, 2021
4. Crystal Palace and Leeds United looking at Conor Gallagher on loan
Fellow Premier League sides Crystal Palace and Leeds United are interested in signing Chelsea youngster Conor Gallagher on loan for the season. The England Under-21 international had an impressive loan spell at West Bromwich last season in the Premier League drastically improving his stock in the transfer market. Even though the club got relegated to the Championship, being under two different managers, Conor Gallagher showcased his ability to adapt to different tactics. The midfielder even showcased his versatility playing both as an offensive and a defensive midfielder last campaign.
Since the start of pre-season training, Conor Gallagher has been training with the first-team squad. It is said that Thomas Tuchel will take a decision whether the English midfielder will be with the first team for the season or go out on loan next week. The club is fully aware of the situation and recognizes the talent that Conor Gallagher possesses. Chelsea sees him as a part of their long-term plans and is unwilling to sell him permanently, but could sanction a loan to provide him more top-flight experience.
Now the question which arises is should the German coach keep him in the first team set up or not? If we go by the formation Chelsea played last season, a minimum of four world-class midfielders are a must. But after the departure of Billy Gilmour to Norwich City for a season-long loan, the club is only left with N’Golo Kante, Jorginho, and Mateo Kovacic. Ruben Loftus Cheek seems to have impressed Thomas Tuchel a lot and has a major chance to be in the first-team squad. And now with the club linked with the signing of Declan Rice, chances for Conor Gallagher would come at a premium. So for better development of his game and to get regular game time under his belt, it seems that a long move to a solid Premier League side would be the better option.