The transfer update that could RUIN Chelsea's season

Suraj Radia

4 Aug 2024 17:30 BST
4 min read

Chelsea’s transfer plans could be thrown into disarray with one of their major deals potentially on the verge of collapse, leaving the Blues in limbo over a key star.

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Aston Villa are the only Premier League side to have spent more money than Chelsea this summer and Enzo Marsesca’s side know there is plenty more work to do after their disappointing 4-2 pre-season loss to Manchester City.

However, Chelsea are unable to make any further significant signings without first raising money through sales and trimming down their first-team squad of more than 40 players.

One player who Chelsea have been determined to cash in on this summer has been Conor Gallagher, with the 24-year-old being told he must leave the club or risk being banished to the reserves.

But, despite Chelsea agreeing a deal of around €40 million with Atletico Madrid, Gallagher has been reluctant to leave his boyhood club and is yet to be convinced of the move to Spain.

According to Spanish outlet Relevo, Atletico see Gallagher as their ‘plan A’ and would give the England international time to make his decision but the La Liga side could be set to move onto another target, leaving Chelsea frustrated at the outcome.

© IMAGO - Conor Gallagher's sale could raise significant money for Chelsea

Chelsea’s season could come down to sales of unwanted stars

Spanish reporter Hector Gomez has claimed that Atletico have now struck a deal with Valencia to sign midfielder Javi Guerra for €30m, which could see the move for Gallagher fall through.

The outcome will depend on Gallagher’s decision but the Chelsea man does not appear concerned by his club’s threats over his future, despite entering the final 12 months of his contract.

Gallagher is keen to remain at Chelsea but has been disappointed by the club only offering him a new three-year contract compared to the longer deals being presented to his teammates.

STATS

Conor Gallagher

M, DM (C)

Chelsea

Conor Gallagher

M, DM (C)

Chelsea

50

Games
7

Goals
9

Assists

Chelsea have made no secret of their desire to cash in on Gallagher, particularly with the club still looking to sign a forward and continue their investment into youth prospects.

With the likes of Romelu Lukaku and Trevoh Chalobah still at the club, both of whom are unwanted by the club, Chelsea now risk more than €100m worth of talent rotting away without their futures being resolved.

Compared

Conor Gallagher

M, DM (C)

Chelsea

Conor Gallagher

M, DM (C)

Chelsea

VS

Trevoh Chalobah

D (CR)

Chelsea

Trevoh Chalobah

D (CR)

Chelsea

Conor Gallagher

Trevoh Chalobah

The failure to sell Gallagher would be the most detrimental if he chooses to see out his contract and leave for free next summer, with Chelsea already under pressure to make the most of their financial assets.

With the club still needing to improve their playing squad while also selling unwanted stars and balancing their books, Chelsea’s summer could hinge on Gallagher’s decision, or risk going into the new season with significant problems to solve.