5 players who have excelled at their loan spells this season
While every player hopes to break into the first team and directly participate at their club, it is not necessary they will get a chance to contribute. Due to youth, healthy competition, or the need to improve their quality, some players cannot make the immediate jump to the starting lineup.
This is where the loan market comes in as it provides teams with the opportunity to send young players out to get valuable first-team experience away from the club. The ultimate goal, of course, is to bring them back into the team at the end of the deal.
Loan deals can provide a chance for certain players to announce themselves to the world, with their performances showing that they deserve a shot. Some of these players have been brilliant. And in some cases, their loan clubs are looking to make a permanent deal to keep these stars.
So without further ado, let's take a look at five players who have excelled at their loan spells this season.
#5 Conor Gallagher | Chelsea (on loan at Crystal Palace)
Conor Gallagher has, undoubtedly, been the best and brightest player within Crystal Palace's ranks, contributing tirelessly for the team in all areas. On loan at Palace from Chelsea, there's a very good chance that the youngster will join the first team at Stamford Bridge next season.
With the sanctions currently imposed on Chelsea, they will need all hands on deck and Gallagher has proven to be a valuable team player.
Conor Gallagher has now scored more Premier League goals this season (8) than Mason Mount (7).
He's also scored goals more than any other Chelsea player. 😉 https://t.co/ynAXcXYTWL
The Chelsea youngster arguably tops the list of the clubs' best players on loan. His loan spells with Swansea and West Brom in previous campaigns have been good. However, they all fall short of his explosive form this season.
Scoring eight goals in 25 Premier League appearances certainly played a part in Gallagher's recent call-up to the England national team.
#4 Brahim Diaz | Real Madrid (on loan at Milan)
Milan are currently enjoying a bright run of form in Serie A, as they are currently at the top of the table. A part of that success is thanks to Brahim Diaz. The star was first loaned out to Milan during the summer of 2020 for the duration of one season.
His performances were impressive and the Rossoneri wanted him back. Real Madrid loaned him out to them again, this time on a two-year deal. Just under one year in, Brahim Diaz has been sublime for the Italian side.
Brahim Diaz scores the decisive goal to give Milan all 3 points 🔴⚫ https://t.co/bgelxTtPGl
It's hardly any surprise that there are reports surfacing about Milan's interest in purchasing the star from Los Blancos on a permanent deal. According to MilanNews, higher-ups for the Rossoneri will meet with Real Madrid to discuss making Diaz's signing permanent.
However, the Madridistas are reportedly intent on keeping him and will not sell him to Milan.