Chelsea midfielder snubs Leeds advances in bid to catch Tuchel’s eye
Midfielder Conor Gallagher will reportedly reject any advances from Premier League clubs as he is keen to prove his worth at Chelsea.
The 28-year-old came up through the Blues youth ranks and penned professional terms in 2018. However, the England Under-21 ace has yet to make a senior appearance for the west Londoners. He signed a new three-year deal in 2019 and was loaned out to Championship club Charlton Athletic for 2019-2020.
However, the Epsom-born starlet was recalled by the Stamford Bridge outfit in January 2020. He scored six goals from 26 appearances for the Addicks and was loaned to Swansea City for the remainder of that campaign.
Gallagher then made 21 second-tier stars for the Swans before returning to Chelsea last summer. The talented schemer put pen to paper on a new five-year Chelsea deal in the summer of 2020.
But, once again, he was jettisoned for a temporary spell away – this time at West Brom. Although the Baggies have been relegated, he has impressed, with a few clubs taking note.
Leeds United and Crystal Palace are said to be admirers, with Marcola Bielsa thought to be a fan. However, according to The Sun, it seems as though the Surrey man has every intention of fighting for his spot in the Chelsea side.
Tuchel lays down Gallagher gauntlet
It remains to be seen if Gallagher is able to force his way into the Champions League finalists’ plans. The German tactician has worked wonders since replacing Frank Lampard earlier in the season.
He seems to have a way of getting the best out of his players and last month challenged the young talent to show his true colours.
“It’s not only my decision, but it’s his responsibility to show and this is what he does,” Tuchel said. “It’s not the moment to take decisions now for Connor, but I’m very aware he’s still our player. We have crucial weeks ahead of us now and for him in his mission at West Brom also.
“He fought his way through as a loan player which is very impressive. He never stops improving.”
Newcastle United are another club thought to be keen but Gallagher is focused on the Bridge. He has played for England at every youth level from Under-17 upwards.
He was part of the Three Lions youngsters who won the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup in India. His next chance to shine will be when Albion host Liverpool at the Hawthorns on Sunday.
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