Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher wants to work with Mauricio Pochettino amidst interest from Newcastle United
Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher is hoping to stay at the club and work under Mauricio Pochettino amidst interest from Newcastle United.
A couple of days ago, the Telegraph (subscription required) revealed that the Magpies are interested in signing Gallagher on a loan deal in the summer window. That report also stated that Pochettino is keen on keeping the England international.
The 23-year-old, who has been part of the Chelsea youth side since 2016, still has a contract at Stamford Bridge until the summer of 2025 (Transfermarkt).
Here’s what the midfielder said when asked about his future at the club (quoted by Chronicle):
“I will just relax and get ready for pre-season. Mauricio Pochettino is a top manager and I am looking forward to working with him.”
Following an impressive loan spell at Crystal Palace during the 2021/22 season, Gallagher did not play much for Chelsea last season. If we look at the numbers, he played just over 2000 minutes in all competitions.
With the midfield clear-out taking place in the last few days at the club, there might be a bit more room for the 23-year-old to stake his claim for a regular place in the XI come next season.
The England international can play as a number eight in a three-man midfield or operate as a number 10 in Pochettino’s favoured 4-2-3-1 system.
Chelsea, on the other hand, are preparing a big offer to hopefully sign Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo. Regardless of what happens on that front, keeping Gallagher would be the right choice for the coming season at the least.
The Englishman has the qualities and the work rate to come good in an intense playing style of Pochettino. His versatility could come in handy as well.
More Chelsea News
- Chelsea are keen to replace Manchester United-bound Mason Mount with Gabri Veiga
- Salvatore Bagni feels Victor Osimhen will snub Chelsea after they failed to ensure Champions League qualification
- Chelsea defender Abdul Baba Rahman mutually terminates contract with the club and is close to a PAOK move
To wrap this up, it’s a bit cheeky from Newcastle to think about signing a first-team midfielder from a direct rival in the league on a loan deal. Try better next time!