Newcastle United are reportedly the current 'front-runners' to seal the signing of Chelsea and England midfielder Conor Gallagher this summer.

The Lowdown: Gallagher a wanted man

The 22-year-old was linked with a host of Premier League clubs during the January transfer window, including the Magpies, having not always been a regular for the Blues this season.

Gallagher has only managed nine starts in the league in total, with both Thomas Tuchel and Graham Potter often turning to other midfielders before him even despite injuries to players like N'Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic.

While the Englishman stayed put at Chelsea beyond January, a summer move away potentially looks on the cards.

The Latest: Newcastle in pole

According to The Evening Standard, Newcastle are the current 'front-runners' to acquire Gallagher's signature, especially if they qualify for the Champions League.

Crystal Palace and Everton are also mentioned as possible suitors, too.

The Verdict: Strong summer signing

Gallagher may have had a fairly frustrating season at Chelsea, only scoring once across 18 league outings, but he has shown in the past what a force he can be in the top flight in the past.

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A tally of eight league goals and two tackles per game on loan at Crystal Palace last season caught the eye, and at 22, he should only improve as a player, having been called 'fantastic' by Potter.

Gallagher, whose current deal expires in 2025, could give Newcastle something a little different in their midfield, proving to be a link man between defence and attack, ranking highly against other midfielders in terms of expected goals, expected assists and successful dribbles (FBRef).