23 December 2023 , 20:30
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Chelsea are at risk of angering Mauricio Pochettino - by entertaining bids for Conor Gallagher in next month's transfer window.
The England international midfielder has been a mainstay in Pochettino's struggling Blues side this season and has worn the captain's armband in the absence of injured skipper Reece James. But Gallagher is now approaching the final 18 months of his contract which is due to expire in the summer of 2025 and although he is desperate to stay at Stamford Bridge - Chelsea are yet to show any clear appetite to extend his current deal.
Bitter rivals Tottenham could now return to the table after seeing a £40million verbal proposal rejected by Chelsea on transfer deadline day in September.
While Ange Postecoglou is prioritising the signing of a new central defender, he is also keen to strengthen his options in the middle of the park this winter with Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr due to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations. There are also doubts over the future of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg in north London.
Additionally, Newcastle and West Ham have previously shown an interest in Gallagher, who was also the subject of a £45m bid from Everton back in January.
Speaking while away on international duty in November, the 23-year-old declared he was totally committed to Chelsea - offering hope that his future would be resolved swiftly. Yet despite his commendable performances, there has been little movement.
He said last month when asked about his contract situation: "I’m sure that will get sorted out, everyone knows Chelsea is my club and I love playing for them. The fans are brilliant and I’m loving right now and I’m sure it will get itself sorted out."
Conor Gallagher has been a key player since Mauricio Pochettino took charge of Chelsea (Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC)Pochettino recently disclosed that Gallagher's future was out of his hands - indicating the club will have the final say on the matter.
As an academy graduate, Gallagher would reflect 100 per cent profit against Financial Fair Play, something that is seemingly of great appeal to Chelsea's key decision-makers as they ponder a controversial sale. While Gallagher is not thought to be listed for sale, Chelsea are prepared to listen to any offers that land on the table in the coming weeks.
The former Crystal Palace loanee has started all but one of Chelsea's 17 Premier League games this season having missed the 2-1 defeat at Manchester United through suspension.