(Football news) In 2023–24, the 24-year-old played a pivotal role for the Blues, starting all but one of their 38 Premier League games and helping the team finish in sixth place in the standings.
Gallagher captained the team for most of those games as well, but rumors have continued to circulate that the club’s co-owners may halt his advancement at the team he grew up playing for.
Gallagher’s contract is set to expire in2025, but Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital haven’t really tried to extend it. Instead, they want to take advantage of his signing to improve the club’s standing under the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability rules.
A price-tag in the region of £50m has reportedly been placed on Gallagher, yet it is unclear whether any clubs would realistically consider paying that much money for a player who would be available on a free transfer in 12 months time.
Boehly, Clearlake have concerns over Gallagher future
Reports have suggested that Gallagher is not short of admirers with Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid having all been credited with an interest.
On the flip side, it is known that Gallagher’s preference is to remain at Stamford Bridge, and it has been indicated that the England international will not jump at any opportunity presented to him.
Chelsea officials have concerns that Gallagher will be willing to bide his time before leaving for nothing next summer. Gallagher is willing to take control over his future, rather than accept that Chelsea are effectively attempting to push him towards the exit door to help balance the books.
Furthermore, it is also acknowledged that foreign clubs can hold discussions over a pre-contract agreement as soon as January, giving Gallagher further reason to stay patient.
What is the most likely outcome?
In Chelsea’s eyes, selling Gallagher before June 30 – the deadline for the next accounts to be filed – is viewed as the perfect outcome.
However, with Gallagher now focused on England duty at Euro 2024, getting the player to entertain talks over what would be the biggest move of his career seem remote, particularly when he does not want to leave Chelsea in the first place.
Given his contractual situation, even a strong showing in Germany will not enhance his price-tag, and there will realistically be truth in Chelsea feeling hamstrung over how the scenario will pan out.
Chelsea could resolve the situation by selling other players and handing a new contract to Gallagher, yet it has recently been claimed that there is uncertainty over whether he will fit into the possession-based tactics of new head coach Enzo Maresca.
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