"When the window is open anything can happen" - Maresca provides response when asked about Conor Gallagher's future at Chelsea
Chelsea Head Coach Enzo Maresca has spoken about the future of midfielder Conor Gallagher amid interest from other clubs. The Blues are prepared to receive offers for a number of players this summer as they bid to achieve financial sustainability.
Since the arrival of the Clearlake Group and Todd Boehly in 2022, Chelsea have spent a fortune signing new players from around the world. They have spent over £1 billion on new signings, with most of their spending focused on young players with huge potential.
This summer, the west London side have come under the tutelage of Italian tactician Enzo Maresca, who has been tasked with reviving the club. He has overseen a draw and a defeat in his first two friendly games in charge of the club but is without many key players. The likes of Cole Palmer, Conor Gallagher, and Marc Cucurella are yet to join the squad following extended participation in Euro 2024.
Gallagher's at the club has been the subject of multiple conversations in recent transfer windows, with multiple sides showing interest in him. Maresca answered questions about the future of the England international in his press conference in the USA.
“When the window is open anything can happen, not only for Conor," Maresca said via Jacobs Ben.
Gallagher has been the subject of Atletico Madrid's interest in recent months, with reports indicating that a fee of around €40 million, via Fabrizio Romano. The Englishman is said to be reluctant to move, but with one year left on his contract, may be forced to move.
Gallagher, who came through the club's academy, has been a mainstay in Chelsea's squad since 2022. His impressive fitness levels have ensured his continued presence in the team. He captained the club for most of the 2023-24 season as both Reece James and Ben Chilwell were plagued by injuries.
Chelsea closing in on new goalkeeper signing - Reports
Chelsea are closing in on an agreement to sign teenage goalkeeper Mike Penders on a permanent deal from KRC Genk, as per Sacha Tavolieri. The Blues are keen on the teenage goalkeeper, who is seen as the next Thibaut Courtois in Belgium.
The reports indicate that the club will have to pay around €20 million to sign the teenager this summer. The deal will make Penders the most expensive goalkeeper to ever transfer out of Belgium.
Chelsea have already reached an agreement to sign Filip Jorgensen this summer and have up to four senior goalkeepers on their books. The Blues will look to move on a number of goalkeepers this summer, but Penders will join for the future.