Transfer Centre

Crystal Palace not ready to give up on Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher?

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 04 September 2022

Crystal Palace not ready to give up on Gallagher deal?

Crystal Palace reportedly remain interested in securing a deal for Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher during the January transfer window.

Crystal Palace will reportedly continue to monitor any developments with the future of Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher.

During 2021-22, the Englishman enjoyed the best season of his career on loan at Selhurst Park, contributing eight goals and three assists in 34 Premier League appearances.

The 22-year-old's efforts for the Eagles has subsequently earned him an opportunity to feature in Thomas Tuchel's first-team squad this season.

As it stands, Gallagher has endured a mixed beginning to senior life at Stamford Bridge, his first Chelsea start at Stamford Bridge against Leicester City being marred by a 28th-minute dismissal for two yellow cards.

On a more positive note, the academy graduate received a show of faith from Tuchel on Saturday as he was handed an immediate recall to the team.

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel on August 6, 2022 © Reuters

In total, Gallagher has now made three starts and two substitute appearances in the Premier League this season, featuring for a total of 159 minutes.

However, according to The Sun, Palace have not given up hope of signing Gallagher during the January transfer window.

At the back end of the summer equivalent, Palace allegedly made a £27m bid for Gallagher which ultimately led to no changes to Chelsea's plans for the England international.

Instead, Palace may now return with a £20m proposal with Chelsea well-stocked for central midfielders due to the arrival of Denis Zakaria from Juventus on deadline day.

Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira and Crystal Palace's Conor Gallagher after the match on March 14, 2022 © Reuters

Despite their huge financial outlay in recent months, Chelsea are unlikely to consider parting ways with Gallagher for a lower fee than they were reportedly presented with last month.

Gallagher also has a contract with the West Londoners until 2025, leaving club officials in no rush to make a decision regarding his long-term future.

On the flip side, Gallagher would become a certain starter under Patrick Vieira at Palace, and much could depend on the game time that he receives before and after the World Cup.

Although Gallagher has earned four caps for England since November, he is not guaranteed a spot in Gareth Southgate's squad for the tournament in Qatar.