Danny Mills has suggested Raphinha’s presence at Elland Road was part of the reason why Leeds United did not sign Conor Gallagher on loan from Chelsea.
The Lowdown: Gallagher moves to Crystal Palace
Leeds United were heavily linked with a move for Chelsea youngster Gallagher over the summer (The Athletic).
However, in the end, he made the switch to Palace on a temporary basis to join Patrick Vieira’s revolution with the Eagles.
The Latest: Mills makes claim
Speaking to Football Insider, Mills believes Raphinha and Rodrigo’s presence at Leeds stopped them from signing Gallagher. He said:
“Maybe staying in London is a bit of a pull and being closer to family and friends.
“He’s been out on loan and away from that and maybe he wants some home comforts. Patrick Vieria is a good pull.
“I just wonder, has he got a chance of playing more regularly at Palace than he would have at Leeds United.
“He’s going to play in that Rahpinha, Rodrigo role. Jack Harrison’s in there, Kalvin Phillips’ is in there. That midfield area for Leeds is not done and dusted but harder to break into than under a new manager and a new direction at Palace.
“He might have had more assurances at Palace. Bielsa might not promise that.”
The Verdict: Bizarre claim
There are a number of reasons as to why £13.5m-valued Gallagher (Transfermarkt) decided to choose Palace over Leeds, but the mention of Raphinha makes very little sense.
The Brazilian is predominantly a right-winger who likes to beat players down the flank – Gallagher is very much a central midfielder who didn’t play a single game on the right side of the pitch last season (Transfermarkt).
Would you have liked to sign Gallagher?
Yes
No
Although West Brom were relegated from the Premier League, Gallagher impressed in the middle of the park last time out, managing two goals and two assists in 30 matches. He would have been a good addition for Leeds even just for one campaign. Unfortunately, he has gone in another direction.
In other news, Leeds are interested in this Real Madrid ace…
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