Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino is determined to keep hold of midfielder Conor Gallagher amidst interest from rival clubs Tottenham and Newcastle United, according to reports from the Evening Standard.
Gallagher, an English international, has been attracting transfer interest this summer, with both Tottenham and Newcastle United eyeing a potential move. However, Pochettino is reluctant to let go of the 23-year-old, especially to his former club Spurs, who are aiming to challenge for a top-four spot in the upcoming season.
This comes at a time when Chelsea has been undergoing a significant squad clear-out, with several first-team players being let go. The likes of Kai Havertz, Mateo Kovacic, N’Golo Kante, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Edouard Mendy have already departed the club.
It is expected that more departures could occur before the end of the transfer window, as Chelsea aims to generate funds from player sales. Among the players who could still be sold by the club is Gallagher, who has attracted interest from Premier League clubs.
However, Mauricio Pochettino could block Gallagher’s departure this summer, as he is keen on working with the midfielder in the upcoming season. Gallagher made a total of 45 appearances for Chelsea across all competitions last season, contributing three goals and one assist.
With the pre-season approaching, Gallagher will have the opportunity to impress Pochettino and prove his worth to the Chelsea manager. The English midfielder has expressed his desire to stay at Chelsea, following his breakthrough season with the first team in the 2022-23 campaign.
In an interview with the Evening Standard, Gallagher said, I love Chelsea. It has been a tough season for me and the whole team, so I think we will just be working hard to get us back to where we belong.
When asked about working with new Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino, Gallagher added, He’s a top manager, everyone at Chelsea is happy he’s here and we’re looking forward to working with him.
The future of Conor Gallagher remains uncertain amidst transfer interest from Premier League clubs. However, Mauricio Pochettino’s determination to retain the midfielder could play a significant role in whether he stays at Chelsea or departs this summer. Chelsea’s squad clear-out and potential midfield reinforcements will also influence the final decision regarding Gallagher’s future.
As the new season approaches, Chelsea fans and football enthusiasts will be eagerly awaiting the outcome of Gallagher’s future, as well as the team’s progress under Mauricio Pochettino’s management.