Aston Villa is keen on signing Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher this summer, reports Fabrizio Romano.
Aston Villa is reportedly interested in acquiring Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher this summer, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Gallagher had an impressive season with Chelsea, making 39 appearances and netting 8 goals across all competitions. His performances helped Mauricio Pochettino’s side secure a place in European competitions. The 23-year-old midfielder also took on a leadership role, wearing the captain’s armband during Reece James’ absence due to injury.
This standout season has attracted the attention of several clubs. Ben Jacobs has indicated to GIVEMESPORT that Aston Villa, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur are all in the race to sign Gallagher. Romano has confirmed Villa’s interest, stating that the Midlands club has already made initial contact with Chelsea to discuss a potential deal.
“Another story to watch with Chelsea, as David Ornstein reported, is that Aston Villa are showing interest in Conor Gallagher. I’m told there are also other clubs, so it remains an open situation, but at the moment nothing is close or imminent. It’s about interest and initial contacts, but no decision has been made yet on Chelsea side.”
Romano elaborated on Villa’s pursuit of Gallagher in his Daily Transfer briefing, reiterating David Ornstein’s reports of Villa’s interest. He highlighted Gallagher’s development into a versatile box-to-box midfielder and noted that Chelsea may be compelled to sell him to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules. This financial pressure could force Chelsea owner Todd Boehly to consider offers for Gallagher, despite his valuable contributions to the team.
Gallagher’s inclusion in Gareth Southgate’s final England squad for the upcoming Euros adds another layer of complexity to the situation. With Gallagher expected to be in Germany soon, Chelsea will aim to expedite the sale before the financial year ends in June. However, ongoing international duties might delay negotiations until after the tournament.
Chelsea is reportedly open to offers around £50 million for Gallagher, a figure that could be reasonable for Villa as they prepare for the added demands of Champions League football next season. Gallagher’s energy, passing range, and goal-scoring ability make him a fitting addition to Unai Emery’s high-intensity pressing system.
Gallagher’s 2023/24 Premier League statistics underscore his value to Chelsea. He led the squad in appearances (37) and interceptions per 90 minutes (1.2), while also ranking high in goals, assists, key passes, and match ratings.
Villa’s interest in Gallagher may also be driven by the potential departures of key players like Douglas Luiz and Ollie Watkins, who are linked with moves to Manchester United, Liverpool, and Arsenal.
Gallagher could be seen as a replacement for Luiz, helping to maintain the squad’s quality and depth as Villa prepares for European competition.