PL club eyeing up move for Conor Gallagher amid disagreement between Chelsea and Atletico Madrid over potential deal - Reports
Newcastle United have entered the race to sign Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher. According to Caught Offside, the Magpies have emerged as a destination for the 24-year-old after his proposed move to Atletico Madrid hit a standstill.
Los Rojiblancos and the Blues had agreed on a £34 million deal for the Englishman. However, the move is reportedly on the verge of falling through after the London side's move for Atletico striker Samu Omorodion was called off at the last moment.
Thus, Gallagher's future with Chelsea remains in limbo. Having entered the last year of his contract, the player was reportedly informed that he won't be a regular fixture in the first team under Enzo Maresca.
The Blues have offered him a two-year extension with an option for a further year. However, Gallagher reportedly wants a longer contract from the Blues.
The Englishman was one of Mauricio Pochettino's key players last season, taking the captain's armband in the absence of Reece James. He made 50 appearances across all competitions, recording seven goals and nine assists.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Gallagher's move to Atletico Madrid now depends on whether the Blues can reach an agreement to sign Joao Felix. The Portuguese forward is expected to leave Atletico and having already spent six months on loan at Stamford Bridge, a return to familiar territory could be beneficial for Felix.
The addition of Gallagher to an already talented Newcastle United midfield could be a great move. They boast the likes of Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton, while Sandro Tonali could also feature once his suspension expires.
Journalist issues update on Chelsea links to Victor Osimhen
Chelsea have explored the possibility of completing a swap deal to land Napoli striker Victor Osimhen. According to journalist Gianluca di Marzio, the Blues could send Romelu Lukaku the other way to sign the Nigerian striker.
There were initial reports that Napoli would look to sign Lukaku permanently, willing to spend €25 million + €5 million in add-ons, while Osimhen would move on loan.
The major deterrent to the deal remains Chelsea's unwillingness to pay the Osimhen's exorbitant wage demands. The Blues have established a clear wage hierarchy at the club and are keen on not breaking it for Osimhen.
The 25-year-old did not participate in Napoli's Coppa Italia win over Modena. With the London side looking to offload Lukaku as well, a swap deal could be a win-win situation for all parties involved.