Newcastle United have reportedly made Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher their top target for the final stages of the summer transfer window.
Newcastle United are primed to ramp up their interest in Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher. That is according to 90 min, who claim the English international is the top target for Eddie Howe and Dan Ashworth heading into the final few weeks of the summer transfer window, with their chances of signing James Maddison looking slim.
The Magpies have had a fairly quiet summer so far under their new owners, only bringing in Sven Botman, Nick Pope and Matt Targett into the senior squad. They have made a bright start to their Premier League season, with four points out of a possible six. But Eddie Howe would like to make more additions to the Newcastle squad as they look to clinch a top-half finish in the Premier League.
Recent reports have suggested that the Magpies have contacted Chelsea to find out their stance on a host of young and exciting fringe players, including Callum Hudson-Odoi, Conor Gallagher, Armando Broja, and Christian Pulisic. They have asked to be made aware if any of those players are available for loan deals.
However, Newcastle are reportedly shifting all focus on getting a deal over the line for Gallagher owing to Jonjo Shelvey suffering a long-term injury. They have also been priced out of a move for Leicester City’s James Maddison. As per 90 min, Newcastle have made the Chelsea midfielder their No. 1 priority and want to get him through the doors at St. James’ Park before the summer transfer window slams shut.
The England international established himself as a top Premier League performer after a brilliant loan spell at Crystal Palace last term, where he showcased many sides of his game. The most notable aspects are his goalscoring ability, intense pressing, and late runs into the box, with Gallagher finding the back of the net eight times during his stint at Selhurst Park.
Howe already has some great options to pick from in midfield, with Bruno Guimaraes, Joe Willock, Joelinton, Jonjo Shelvey and Sean Longstaff on the books. But the Newcastle manager is scouring the market for a new addition to the engine room who can bring additional goals to his side.
Gallagher fits the bill, and given his age, he has a lot more to offer in the coming years. So, it is easy to understand why Newcastle are pushing for a permanent swoop. However, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has insisted previously that he clearly rates the England international.
But he also recognises Gallagher faces a tough task of breaking into the starting lineup and receive the regular football he needs for his progression. Thus, the situation is quite open, and it will be interesting to see whether Newcastle will be able to lure Chelsea into making a permanent sale for the highly-coveted 22-year-old.
