Newcastle United are unlikely to bring in Conor Gallagher now that Chelsea have agreed to sell Jorginho to Arsenal, according to reliable reporter Michael Bridge.
The Lowdown: Gallagher on the move?
It was reported last night by Craig Hope that Everton had made a £45m offer for Gallagher, with the journalist also adding that the player wants to stay at Chelsea, but would seek a move to Newcastle or a top six club if he was forced out.
However, as a result of the news that the Blues have agreed to sell Jorginho to Arsenal, with the Italian now due there for his medical, it has emerged that Graham Potter may be unwilling to allow another central midfielder to leave the club.
The Latest: Update from Bridge
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT about the possibility of Gallagher leaving, Bridge said:
“From the little bits I heard this morning, it was either going to be Conor Gallagher going out or Jorginho. He’s highly regarded by a number of clubs but if Jorginho ends up going to Arsenal which looks to be the case, then Chelsea will have a decision to make.
“Despite Newcastle’s interest, I think they’d be reluctant to let him go to what they consider to be a Premier League rival now. I wouldn’t completely rule out a late loan deal, but a lot will rest on Graham Potter’s decision.”
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The Verdict: Disappointing news
The 22-year-old has an attacking focus, which is indicated by the fact that he has received an average of 3.87 progressive passes per 90 over the past year, in the 93rd percentile compared to other midfielders, and there is every indication he would be an upgrade on the outgoing Jonjo Shelvey.
Hailed as 'unbelievable' by Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira (via Chelsea News), the four-time England international has averaged more non-penalty goals and assists per 90 than Shelvey in the past year.
Not only that, but he would also be an improvement defensively, given that he has averaged more tackles and interceptions than the 30-year-old in the same timeframe.
Bridge does not completely discard the chances of a late deal, so Newcastle should now see if they can tempt Chelsea with an offer, as he would be a quality addition in the engine room.