Conor Gallagher transfer closer but Chelsea may get sweetener in PL striker

A Champions League club are negotiating for Chelsea captain Conor Gallagher. Much of the Blues fan base appear to wish for the talented midfielder to remain at Stamford Bridge. But, if the England international does leave, CFC might perhaps be given a sweetener for any prospective agreement thanks to their admiration of a Premier League striker. Will Aston Villa forward Jhon Duran join and will Gallagher go? The Pride of London cover the latest news and speculation.

Villa begin talks over potential signing of Conor Gallagher

Following a supposed breakdown in new contract discussions at Chelsea, there is now apparent illumination regarding Gallagher's immediate future. This one has been quite the Fulham Road saga, akin to drawn-out goings-on as with Chels' attacker Romelu Lukaku.

Local media from up and down the country, especially in and around London, not to mention national journalists, have been speculating on the 24-year-old for over a year now. And, if you weren't aware, the explosive player actually has one-year remaining on his existing Blues deal.

Nevertheless, due to his calibre he has been the subject of constant hearsay. Although, thankfully for those of us who talk CFC nonstop, there may now be closure. While we can possibly all move on soon - the outcome is arguably negative for the team.

The development was revealed by trustworthy The Athletic reporter David Ornstein. Gallagher is said to be courted by numerous English top-flight sides, including Tottenham Hotspur, a notable rival. but it could be Champions League entrants Villa who eventually secure the signature.

Ornstein writes that the Villans have held "preliminary talks" with the capital outfit over a potential switch. Representatives of AVFC are in contact with Gallagher's camp too. Yet there is a seemingly important aspect to any final understanding between the two teams.

Chelsea consider Villa centreforward Jhon Duran - David Ornstein

Chelsea are known to hold an interest in an up-and-coming star of the west Midlands outfit. Duran gained attention last season when he began scoring in the ultimate domestic division. There were various reports concerning CFC's consideration of the Colombian as a viable option in January.

Nothing transpired at the time, but could the forward be used as persuasion during the Gallagher parley? A 'good relationship' apparently exists between Chelsea and Aston Villa, so anything is possible. For me, a large fee would also have to be hypothetically offered to the Blues in order to make this one a fair exchange.