Chelsea will ‘hold behind-the-scenes talks’ over £40m star at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea will likely be holding talks ‘behind the scenes’ regarding the future of midfielder Conor Gallagher at Stamford Bridge, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth.

The 22-year-old was sent off during the Blues’ 2-1 win over Leicester City on Saturday and he could still depart before the Thursday night deadline.

What is the latest on Gallagher?

The Cobham academy graduate started a second game on the bounce for his parent club on Saturday but was shown two yellow cards in the space of a few minutes in the first half against the Foxes.

There remains interest in the youngster ahead of the transfer deadline at Stamford Bridge, however.

According to The Sun, Newcastle United have made the signing of Gallagher their top priority, with Chelsea valuing the midfielder at £40 million.

Crystal Palace, meanwhile, are understood to be eager to take Gallagher back to Selhurst Park and have made a £27 million bid for his services.

It has also been reported that West Ham United hold an interest, with David Moyes looking to add more energy to the centre of his side.

What has Sheth said on the future of Gallagher?

Sheth understands that there may well be behind-the-scenes talks going on regarding the youngster’s future.

The Sky Sports reporter adds that Gallagher himself may be pushing for a move away, with one eye on a place in England’s World Cup squad.

Sheth told GIVEMESPORT: “Last season, he had a fantastic loan spell at Crystal Palace, so good that he got England recognition. Now, I’m sure Connor Gallagher, with three months to go until the World Cup, has got the taste to play for England and he will have aspirations and ambitions to get into the World Cup squad. If he’s not playing, he’s simply not going to get that opportunity.

“So, I’m sure there will be talks going on behind the scenes on what is best for his development. Is it to go on another loan? Is it maybe to sell him permanently? Or, indeed, Is he going to get the opportunities that he wants at Chelsea? I just think it is definitely one to watch in the last hours.”

What should Gallagher do?

It would be a risk for Gallagher to remain with Chelsea beyond the deadline if the opportunity to depart does arise.

He has happened upon first-team opportunities of late but only thanks to the absence of N’Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic, with the latter emerging from the bench on Saturday.

His minutes will likely vanish in the coming weeks. Last season saw him score eight goals and grab five assists during his spell with Palace.

Recapturing that form away from Stamford Bridge will provide his best chance of a World Cup call-up.

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