Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca offers clarity on Conor Gallagher situation after Atletico Madrid transfer stalls
Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca has explained the situation surrounding Conor Gallagher after his stalled move to Atletico Madrid. The English midfielder is expected to depart Stamford Bridge this summer after having been deemed as surplus to requirements under the new coach.
Academy graduate Gallagher established himself as a regular with the first team in the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons, proving to be a durable and reliable player. The midfielder made 95 senior appearances across competitions and was captain on the pitch for most of the 2023-24 season.
Enzo Maresca arrived this summer from Leicester City and doubts emerged about whether the 24-year-old was suited to his style of football. The doubts were confirmed when the club reached an agreement with Atletico Madrid reportedly for his sale this month.
Gallagher's move to Spain has stalled despite him traveling over there and undergoing medicals with Los Colchoneros over a move. Maresca spoke about the situation in his press conference ahead of facing Manchester City, revealing that the midfielder has returned to the club.
He said (via Football.London):
"Conor is back. He is training apart. He is doing some medical tests and some training. He won't be involved in the game. At this moment, he is trying to find a solution with the club."
Conor Gallagher is training with the club's U-21s alongside the likes of Trevoh Chalobah, Armando Broja, and Romelu Lukaku. All three have been earmarked for sales. The England international is waiting for Chelsea to find an agreement that will allow him to complete his transfer to Spain.
Atletico Madrid are in negotiations with the Blues, who are interested in Joao Felix, over what will essentially be a swap deal, as per Fabrizio Romano. The Portuguese forward will move to Stamford Bridge if an agreement is reached, while Gallagher will move to Spain.
Former Chelsea youngster completes Ligue 1 switch
Former Chelsea winger Diego Moreira has completed a transfer to Ligue 1 outfit Strasbourg on a permanent basis from the English side. The Portugal U-21 international joins the French outfit after failing to impress at Stamford Bridge.
Moreira moved to Stamford Bridge from Benfica following the expiration of his contract at the Portuguese club last summer. The 20-year-old forward made his debut for the Blues against AFC Wimbledon before heading out on loan to Olympique Lyonnais.
Olympique Lyonnais was not a productive move for Moreira as he made only nine appearances before his loan was cut short in January. The youngster shone for the Chelsea U-21s in the second half of the season and will now join Strasbourg on a five-year deal.