Chelsea Transfer News Roundup: Blues eyeing RB Salzburg star; Conor Gallagher likely to stay, and more - July 7, 2024
Chelsea are preparing to fight for the big trophies under Enzo Maresca next season. The Italian manager took charge at Stamford Bridge last month and is making necessary changes to his squad over the summer.
Meanwhile, the Blues have set their sights on RB Salzburg defender Strahinja Pavlovic. Elsewhere, midfielder Conor Gallagher is likely to continue with the London giants beyond this summer.
On that note, here's a look at the key Chelsea transfer stories as on July 7, 2024:
Chelsea eyeing Strahinja Pavlovic
Chelsea have entered the race to sign Strahinja Pavlovic this summer, according to HITC. The Serbian defender caught the eye with RB Salzburg last season, registering 37 appearances across competitions.
Maresca has welcomed Tosin Adarabioyo to his roster this summer but remains keen on further defensive additions. Thiago Silva's departure has left a gaping hole in the squad, which the club are eager to fill.
The Blues also have their eyes on Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori, but if recent reports are to be believed, Arsenal are the favourites in that race. The situation has prompted Maresca to consider his options, and Pavlovic has emerged as an option.
The 23-year-old is also wanted by Aston Villa and Newcastle United and will reportedly be available for £25 million.
Conor Gallagher likely to stay at Stamford Bridge
Conor Gallagher is unlikely to leave Stamford Bridge this summer, according to Football Insider. The English midfielder has entered the final year of his contract with Chelsea but is yet to sign a new deal.
Gallagher was an omnipresent figure under Mauricio Pochettino in the 2023-24 campaign, racking up seven goals and nine assists in 50 games across competitions. His efforts earned him a place in the Three Lions squad at Euro 2024.
It was previously reported that the West London giants are ready to cash in on him this summer to help adhere to the Premier League's new profit and sustainability rules. Tottenham Hotspur are long-term admirers of the 24-year-old and eyeing a move this year.
However, it appears that the Blues are under no pressure to let Gallagher leave. The player has always maintained that he wants to stay at Stamford Bridge, and he could get his wish soon.
Blues agree Renato Veiga deal, says Fabrizio Romano
Chelsea are all set to complete a move for Renato Veiga, according to acclaimed transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. The 20-year-old caught the eye with FC Basel last season, and the Blues have moved quickly to secure his services.
The London giants have targeted talented youngsters recently, and Veiga is a perfect fit for their transfer strategy. The Portuguese is capable of carrying out various roles in midfield and defence, although he primarily operates as a defensive midfielder.
In his column for Caught Offside, Romano added that a move has been completed for €14 million.
“Renato Veiga is on his way to Chelsea in a €14-15m move from FC Basel. He’s seen as someone who can play centre-back, left-back or defensive midfield, so he covers a lot of positions,” wrote Romano.
He continued:
“Chelsea see Veiga as a talent with huge potential, and available for a cheap price.
"He’s the perfect profile for what they wanted and needed. There are no add-ons or sell-on because Chelsea preferred to agree on €14m fixed fee believing it was a good deal for them.”
Veiga appeared 26 times across competitions for the Swiss side in the 2023-24 campaign, registering two goals and an assist.