Newcastle United have expressed an interest in signing 22-year-old Chelsea ace Conor Gallagher on loan, but Graham Potter remains reluctant.
According to football.london, Newcastle United are among the teams keen on signing Conor Gallagher on loan this month. The lack of starts at Stamford Bridge may have given the Magpies hope of bringing the 22-year-old Chelsea ace, but Graham Potter considers him necessary to his plans.
Conor Gallagher returned to Stamford Bridge in the summer after a successful loan spell at Crystal Palace, hoping he would have an essential role at Stamford Bridge. The 22-year-old Chelsea ace has yet to have the ideal start to life at the club, making just eight league starts this term.
He was utilised as a squad player by Thomas Tuchel, and the has trend continued under Graham Potter. He did make a start against former side Palace at Stamford Bridge and proved instrumental as Chelsea narrowly edged three points.
His current status has provided hope to a few suitors, including Crystal Palace and Newcastle United. The Eagles were interested in the summer, but Chelsea refused to let him leave permanently. Hence, they are back in the hunt for the midfielder but owing to their form this term, they are an unattractive destination currently.
On the other hand, Newcastle United are hoping to sign him on a loan deal until the end of the season. The Magpies need midfield reinforcements, and while Eddie Howe might have preferred to sign someone permanently, the vital objective is to finish in the top four. Hence, a loan deal could suffice.
Moreover, they have lost key midfielder Bruno Guimaraes to an injury for a few weeks. The Brazilian limped off with a suspected ankle problem during the controversial win over Fulham. Later, he departed St James Park on crutches, which has raised concerns within the fanbase.
Gallagher could take up an important position in Howe’s midfield. However, the hurdle for Newcastle United would come from Potter’s reluctance to part ways. The former Brighton boss considers the 22-year-old Chelsea ace a critical player and could integrate him more into his lineup.
Moreover, Chelsea would remain wary of strengthening a direct top-four rival with a key player. They are unlikely to sanction any move for him this month, although they might consider a sale in the summer if the midfielder’s circumstances remain unchanged.
