Journalist Pete O'Rourke has dropped an intriguing claim involving Aston Villa and a potential move for Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher.
The lowdown: Breakout season
Having previously spent time on loan at Charlton Athletic, Swansea City and West Brom, the 22-year-old came to prominence last term and has now earned senior England recognition as a result.
After impressing elsewhere previously, Gallagher enjoyed a truly breakthrough spell at Crystal Palace during 2021/22 and has become a top target for the Eagles, West Ham United and Everton this summer.
Along with national caps and domestic admiration, the midfielder is now attracting interest from European giants Inter Milan and Juventus, whilst one journalist has suggested that Villa could well be in the mix too.
The latest: Villa likely to be 'keeping tabs' on Gallagher
Speaking to GiveMeSport, O'Rourke claimed that Villa manager Steven Gerrard will also be paying close attention to what happens next for the three-cap England starlet.
The journalist said: “He was a massive success at Crystal Palace last year, he’s broken into the England squad, but if he’s not going to play for Chelsea, I’m sure most of the Premier League would probably sign Conor Gallagher if he became available.
“So, I’m sure Aston Villa will be no different. I’m sure they’ll be keeping tabs on his situation at Stamford Bridge just like most of the Premier League will be.”
The verdict: Worth a shot
In 2021/22, Gallagher scored eight times and provided five assists in 39 appearances across all competitions, being hailed by journalist Mike Stavrou for a 'relentless' performance against Arsenal in April containing two interceptions and three tackles (Sofascore), showcasing an equally impressive defensive prowess to accompany the attacking talent.
Valued at £22.5m and under contract at Chelsea until 2025 (Transfermarkt), this would be an expensive but worthwhile outlay for NSWE should the energetic ace decide to move on once again this summer.
Gallagher would be a superb addition to the Villa Park ranks, particularly with the opportunity to develop further under Gerrard, who himself was a barnstorming midfielder with an eye for a goal, having netted 120 Premier League goals in an illustrious career.
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