Blues (Chelsea) have rejected a bid from West Ham United for midfielder Conor Gallagher.
Currently, the England international is taking part in the Blues’ pre-season tour of the United States, scoring in each of their victories over Wrexham and Brighton & Hove Albion.
The West Londoners are also lacking in senior midfield options as a result of allowing numerous players to leave Stamford Bridge this summer without recruiting comparable replacements.
Nonetheless, it has been reported in the last 24 hours that Chelsea owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital are willing to sell the 23-year-old.
Gallagher’s contract expires in just over two years, and there has been no sign that the club’s administration has initiated contract renewal talks.
That approach was reportedly support by the player and newly head coach, Mauricio Pochettino. Gallagher also acknowledged that he may see more first-team involvement elsewhere.
In his first full season with Chelsea in 2022-23, he made 45 appearances, although just 21 of them were from the starting lineup.
Blues rejected Hammers for Gallagher Transfer
However, according to Sky Sports News, Boehly and Clearlake Capital have refused to accept West Ham’s £40 million bid.
In January, when Chelsea was under increased financial strain, it was claimed that the price in issue would have been sufficient to cover the sale of the academy graduate.
The decision-makers appear to be shifting their stance, and West Ham is reportedly considering whether to submit a better proposal.
With a substantial amount of the £105 million gained by Declan Rice’s sale to Arsenal now at his disposal, manager David Moyes is eager to acquire at least one new central midfielder to replace him.
While Gallagher is towards the top of Moyes’ wishlist, the East Londoners have also been connected with a number of other players, notably Gallagher’s former Chelsea colleague Denis Zakaria.
Southampton’s James Ward-Prowse could replace Gallagher for a similar amount, while Ajax’s Edson Alvarez might cost around £50 million.
