Chelsea have told Conor Gallagher he does not suit Enzo Maresca’s possession-based style of play and will not be a starter under the new head coach, with the two parties locked in talks on Friday to avoid the England international going into exile.
Atletico Madrid have had a £34.1million bid accepted for the 24-year-old and the La Liga side want an answer from Gallagher by the end of the weekend. It is possible he could still stay, though rumours circulated on Friday that he would be forced to train away from the first team if so.
That has not been verified by the club with the squad still touring the United States, but it is known that Gallagher would play a bit-part role in Maresca’s midfield if he decided to see out the final year of his contract at Stamford Bridge.
In a meeting held at their Cobham training ground on Friday, Gallagher told the club he was open to agreeing a lengthy contract, similar to those signed by several of his team-mates. Gallagher's holiday was cut short by Chelsea, with discussions on his future taking place.
However, Chelsea’s best offer has been a two-year deal with the option of a third as they feel his long-term future lies elsewhere. Gallagher, who joined the club’s academy at the age of six, has twice turned down that deal offered to him in June and July.
Chelsea are locked in talks with Conor Gallagher as they look to avoid him going into exile
Gallagher, pictured here on a previous holiday with Áine May Kennedy, had his most recent break cut short by the club
Gallagher, who rejected the chance to join Aston Villa, may not fit in Maresca's (right) system
Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid want Gallagher to decide on his future by this weekend
It is understood that proposal is still on the table, but Chelsea feel the time is right for their homegrown graduate to leave so that he can get the game time he craves. They have warned him that by agreeing to stay and become a squad player, it could jeopardise his England career.
Chelsea flew to Columbus on Friday to continue their tour of the United States while this messy situation was playing out in London. They face Manchester City on Saturday night, but like Cole Palmer and Marc Cucurella, Gallagher will not be in attendance as they have been afforded extended breaks after their runs to the Euro 2024 final in which England lost to Spain.
Chelsea have previously accepted two bids for Gallagher, first from Aston Villa and then Atletico.
The Blues offered Gallagher a new contract of two years plus a year's option after a £57.5m fee was accepted from Aston Villa in June, which he rejected. Atletico are awaiting his decision.
Other options in Maresca’s midfield include Enzo Fernandez, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, all of whom are seen as ahead of Gallagher in the pecking order.
That is despite Gallagher playing a pivotal role last season under Mauricio Pochettino, wearing the captain’s armband in Reece James’s absence and starting 37 of their 38 matches in the Premier League. He was perfect for Pochettino as he won the ball back more than any other Chelsea player, and the supporters unveiled a gigantic banner in his honour on the season's final day. Prior to that, he enjoyed a successful loan at Crystal Palace as he played his way into the England team.
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However, Maresca has made no secret of wanting to introduce a philosophy which focuses on passing from back to front, and Chelsea do not think he suits that style.
Gallagher’s strengths may benefit Atletico under Diego Simeone, while Tottenham and West Ham have previously shown an interest. Chelsea’s preference would be to sell him to a European club rather than a Premier League rival. Sources close to Gallagher said all options are open and despite Atletico’s deadline, they do not want to rush into the wrong decision.
Gallagher has never hidden his desire to stay and play for Chelsea but would like a contract that reflects his value and a commitment from all sides.
Tottenham have yet to enter the fray as they concentrate on a striker but are monitoring developments.