Aston Villa have reportedly held preliminary talks with Chelsea over Conor Gallagher, while Jhon Duran could move in the opposite direction.
As we saw last season following the injuries to Boubacar Kamara and Youri Tielemans, coupled with suspensions for the likes of Douglas Luiz and John McGinn, Villa could certainly do with bolstering our central midfield options this summer.
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Particularly as we look to compete on multiple fronts again next season, including in the Champions League while trying to cement our place in the top four in the Premier League, it’s imperative that we strengthen where possible this summer in key areas of Unai Emery’s squad.
According to The Athletic, Villa have held preliminary talks with Chelsea over a deal to sign Gallagher, and it’s added that the 24-year-old is a top target for Emery, who is said to be an admirer of his talents.
Further, it’s added that we’re in contact with Gallagher’s representatives in order to reach an agreement on personal terms if a move to Villa appeals, and so time well tell how quickly progress is made or if the deal ultimately proves to be unlikely.
Gallagher made 50 appearances for Chelsea last season, scoring seven goals and providing nine assists. Having now also earned 13 caps for England, he is establishing himself as a key figure for club and country, and it remains to be seen if the next chapter of his career comes with us.
With his energy, tenacity and athleticism, he could prove to be an important addition to the Villa squad to give us more presence, protection and quality in the heart of the side, and if Emery is keen, it suggests that he believes the England international would be an excellent fit for our structure and style of play moving forward.
Meanwhile, the Athletic report above also notes that Chelsea remain interested in Villa striker Duran, and that the 20-year-old is a transfer target for them this summer but he also has interest from Italy, Saudi Arabia and Spain.
Given the lack of depth and competition behind Ollie Watkins up front, Duran remains a key option for Emery having bagged eight goals in 37 outings last season.
Should he depart, as speculation has suggested for months now, Villa would certainly have to delve into the transfer market to replace him, and so it remains to be seen if that’s a reshuffle that Emery is willing to make, while also considering the PSR ramifications of our business in the coming weeks as we look to balance our books and hopefully end the summer with a stronger group.