EXCLUSIVE: Spurs weigh up Ndombele return as Chelsea hold firm on Gallagher

Jacque Talbot

• 12 Jan 2024 06:00 CST
• 3 min read

Exclusive

Tottenham are contemplating whether to bring back Tanguy Ndombele to the side amid uncertainty surrounding a potential deal for Chelsea midfielder Connor Gallagher, FootballTransfers has been told.

The Frenchman is currently plying his trade at Galatasaray on loan but sources have revealed to us that internal discussions have taken place regarding the possibility of recalling the midfielder. It is believed that manager Ange Postecoglou is keen on integrating Ndombele back into the squad, particularly after positive reports of his form in the Turkish Super Lig.

Spurs still consider Gallagher to be the No.1 target but Chelsea are remaining steadfast in their valuation of the England international.

Ndombele, who arrived at Tottenham from Lyon in 2019, has had a tumultuous tenure with the North London club. His loan move to Galatasaray provided him with an opportunity for regular playing time and now it’s believed a cheap alternative for Gallagher to see out the season would be to bring him back.

Ndombele reclaimed a spot in Galatasaray's starting lineup after the winter break but also helped significantly in their Super Lig victory against Konyaspor.

How much did Ndombele cost Spurs?

Ndombele was a £55m acquisition for Spurs from Lyon. But he has failed to hold down a place in North London.

His move to Turkey represents his third loan spell away, having previously had stints with former club Lyon and Serie A winners Napoli.

He has played 91 times for Spurs across three years, netting ten goals in that time. The player was featured in the 2018/19 Champions League Squad of the Season, while he helped Napoli win their first Scudetto since 1990 in the 2022/23 campaign.

@Steve Kay