Arsenal and Manchester United 'enter the race' for Conor Gallagher
Football Transfers (citing Diario AS) has reported that Arsenal and manchester united have joined the race to sign Conor Gallagher from Chelsea this summer as he could be “forced out” of west London.
He first division The teams have “asked to be informed” about the midfielder's current situation while the Blues seek to sanction his sale to balance their accounts, the report adds.
Since Todd Boehly took over, Chelsea have spent exorbitant amounts on transfer market and risk facing Financial Fair Play ramifications if they cannot justify their finances sooner rather than later.
Gallagher's asking price has been set at £42 million and the club are insisting on selling him, despite a great season, as he is a homegrown player and will result in a 100% return on the books.
Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with him in the past, while there is also overseas interest in signing the 24-year-old with Atletico Madrid in the running.
It is a matter of time before Gallagher leaves Chelsea
Chelsea appear to have decided that Gallagher will have no future at Stamford Bridge and the change of manager appears to have negatively impacted the player's desire to remain at his boyhood team.
He was Mauricio Pochettino's trusted lieutenant and played 54 times last season, scoring 16 goals in the process, but he may not be part of Enzo Maresca's plans from day one.
Manchester United could have the advantage over Arsenal in signing Gallagher, as the Chelsea fans' favorite could decide not to join their London rivals, possibly also ruling out Spurs as a destination.
The Red Devils are looking for a central midfielder to partner Kobbie Mainoo and for a player with Gallagher's experience and potential, a £42m transfer fee seems reasonable.
He was excellent at Crystal Palace on loan and was one of Chelsea's best players last season, and his adaptability at two tactically diverse clubs is proof that he will do well in the next step of his career.
