Conor Gallagher Chelsea exit latest: Diego Simeone's transfer 'wish', 'contract plan' and player's stance

Chelsea star Conor Gallagher continues to be linked with a move away from the club despite enjoying regular football last season. The midfielder has more than proved himself at Premier League level at this stage, but there is more to the situation than Gallagher’s footballing quality.

If the Blues want to keep spending big, they are going to need to balance the books to stay in line with financial rules, and players like Gallagher who have come through the club’s academy represent pure profit, and lots of it. With all that in mind, we have rounded up the latest on the situation.

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Atletico Madrid and Tottenham have been the main clubs to have been linked with a move for Gallagher this summer. The latest report comes from Journalist Simon Phillips on his Substack, with claims that Atletico boss Diego Simeone ‘really wants’ to sign the midfielder this summer.

The report adds that Gallagher would be willing to move to Madrid, but he is said to prefer a Chelsea stay. Meanwhile, reports elsewhere have claimed that Tottenham are still hoping they can get hold of the midfielder for just £30million this summer. Gallagher is valued at more than £40million, but his contract situation currently puts the Blues in a tricky negotiating position.

Chelsea contract stance

Gallagher has just one year remaining on his current Chelsea contract, meaning the club likely have to sell him or offer him a new deal this summer. According to CaughtOffside, talks have begun over a new deal, with the Blues speaking with Gallagher’s representatives as the player enjoys some time on holiday following Euro 2024.

A new contract would all-but end transfer speculation this summer, while Gallagher would be getting his wish of a stay. But he will likely want a significant pay raise after establishing himself as a key player at Stamford Bridge over the last 12 months.

What Gallagher has said

Asked about his Chelsea future in June, Gallagher said: "I am a Chelsea player right now. Like I said, I am thinking about England and the tournament. I've been focusing on England. This is the most important thing right now for me. I just want to start the tournament now."

The midfielder also spoke about the departure of Mauricio Pochettino, adding: "Of course (I was disappointed), like I said, he did so much for me. I was sad, sad for him and the coaching staff. Really excited for the new manager coming in and working with him.

“I've been playing on a consistent basis [over the last year]. I've just wanted to work as hard as possible to help. A lot of credit to Pochettino for giving me that opportunity to show Chelsea what I can do."

On new boss Maresca, the midfielder told talkSPORT: “Cole’s only told me good things. He’s really excited about the new manager and so am I. He’s obviously had a great season at Leicester last season. Me and everyone at Chelsea are really excited to work with him.”