Conor Gallagher was in sensational from last season on loan (Getty Images)
According to Daily Mail, Leeds United have stepped up their interest in signing Chelsea youngster Conor Gallagher ahead of the new campaign.
The report suggests that Chelsea are willing to send him on loan for another season but the Whites could face competition for his services. Premier League rivals West Brom and Crystal Palace are also keen to secure his services this summer.
Born in England, Gallagher started his journey with hometown side Epsom Eagles before joining Chelsea’s youth academy in 2008. The youngster impressed with the Blues’ youth sides and helped them lift two UEFA Youth League titles.
He has been a regular member of England’s youth squads and was also instrumental in helping the U17 side lift the European Championship in 2017. He was sent on two different loan spells to Charlton Athletic and Swansea City last season and the youngster’s impressive performances caught the attention of several clubs.
He managed to rack up 6 goals and 4 assists in 26 games for the Addicks and went on to provide 7 more assists in the second half of the 2019/20 campaign with Swansea. He was also a part of England’s U21 squad for the recent European U21 Championship Qualifiers.
Marcelo Bielsa has been busy this summer in preparation for the Whites’ return to the top-flight. He has already made a handful of signings in several key positions. However, one area the manager should focus on strengthening is the midfield.
At the moment, Leeds have only four attack-minded midfielders. Mateusz Klich is the only experienced midfielder in the squad and the Polish international has been a key figure under Bielsa. Jamie Shackleton has just started a few games and Mateusz Bogusz is another youngster available at the manager’s disposal.
However, they are without the services of Adam Forshaw as the Englishman is injured. He is set to be on the sidelines for a few months and Gallagher could be a replacement for Forshaw. The youngster has already shown immense potential and could fill the void.
Moreover, he has some experience in English football and his inclusion would definitely boost their squad depth. He would also bring healthy competition. And by joining the Yorkshire outfit, Gallagher could develop himself with some game time in the top-flight.
With limited options and Forshaw’s setback, it is clear that the Whites are in need of midfielders. And Gallagher, who has already proven his worth in the Championship, could provide them with some much-needed depth and quality. Thus, they should lure the 20-year-old to Elland Road this summer.
