Crystal Palace could make a 'perfect' signing in Chelsea's Conor Gallagher, Pete O'Rourke has told GiveMeSport.

The lowdown

The 22-year-old spent the 2021/22 season on loan at Selhurst Park from the Eagles' fellow London club, starting 33 of their 38 Premier League games and winning their Player of the Year Award.

The Englishman has been integrated into the Blues' first-team squad this season but has only played 166 minutes across their first eight matches in all competitions, having picked up a one-game suspension following a red card against Leicester City last month.

According to The Times, Palace made a bid of £27m to sign Gallagher long-term in the final days of the transfer window, but were unsuccessful in their pursuit.

The latest

O'Rourke says that Vieira remains a big admirer of the midfielder in light of his contribution to Palace's fortunes last season, with the journalist believing that a permanent move could actually be the best step for all parties.

He told GiveMeSport: “Vieira is a huge fan of Gallagher and we saw how well he did at Crystal Palace last season as well.

“It would be a perfect fit for everybody, I think, if Crystal Palace were able to sign Gallagher if he’s not going to figure in Chelsea’s plans.”

The verdict

Returning to Palace could give Gallagher a better chance of tying down a place in the England squad.

He won his first four senior caps for his country in November, March and June last season, but was missing from Gareth Southgate's final selection before the World Cup.

That may have to do with the fact that he hasn't been able to fully establish himself at Stamford Bridge. Former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel called him 'fantastic', but it remains to be seen how big a role the 22-year-old plays in Graham Potter's plans in west London.

Palace will surely be watching closely, perhaps pondering another offer in the January transfer window.