Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly identified their preferred time to make a bid for Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher.
The England international has just starred for the Blues in 2023-24, contributing five goals and seven assists from 37 starts in the Premier League.
Gallagher - the third-choice captain under then-head coach Mauricio Pochettino - subsequently helped Chelsea earn a return to European competition, yet it has been well-documented that he is available for transfer.
Co-owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital want to cash in on the 24-year-old in order to significantly boost the club's position with the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules.
As a result, no new contract is expected to arrive for Gallagher, with his current terms expiring in 2025, and the chase is now on for his signature.
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Spurs ready to rival Aston Villa
Earlier this week, it was suggested that Aston Villa had opened discussions regarding a potential deal for Gallagher as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of participating in the Champions League.
However, Spurs have long been linked with a move for Gallagher, despite his allegiances to a rival, and it appears they have reached a decision over when to make an approach.
According to Football Insider, Spurs plan to put forward an official bid for Gallagher within the next two weeks.
The current aim is to test Chelsea's resolve ahead of the next accounting date of June 30, aware the West Londoners are under pressure to satisfy all requirements.
Reports elsewhere have indicated that Boehly and Clearlake are only willing to do business for a fee in the region of £50m.
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Could Spurs' plans backfire?
While the assumption is that Spurs feel they can put Chelsea under pressure over their valuation, it is a risky tactic when other clubs will be involved in the race.
Villa are allegedly prepared to consider a part-exchange proposal involving Jhon Duran, who has been heavily linked with Chelsea in the past.
Furthermore, other reports have suggested that Atletico Madrid are monitoring the situation, while Gallagher himself may feel more encouraged to join a club that is expressing the most interest.
Spurs' best hope of signing Gallagher could be down to his alleged desire to remain in London, or at least close to the capital at the very least.
Darren Plant
