Brighton Favourites to Sign Conor Gallagher from Chelsea
Brighton & Hove Albion have emerged as the favourites to sign Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher, according to talkSPORT BET. The Seagulls are currently priced at 3/1 to secure the services of the England international, who is expected to leave Stamford Bridge this summer due to the club’s need to trim down their squad. Newcastle United had been the frontrunners to sign Gallagher, but Brighton’s odds have shortened following renewed speculation.
Gallagher, who was scouted by Chelsea’s academy at the age of eight, has been with the club ever since. He made 45 appearances for the Blues last season but is uncertain of a starting berth next season due to the club’s new signings. Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea’s new manager, is expected to sell a number of quality players in order to balance out the numbers this summer.
Brighton’s need for a direct replacement for Alexis Mac Allister, who has already departed for Liverpool, has increased their interest in Gallagher. Another Brighton midfielder likely to be exiting the club is Moises Caicedo, who is expected to join Chelsea. This leaves Pascal Gross, Billy Gilmour and Jakub Moder as the Seagulls’ senior central midfielders.
In addition to being a potential like-for-like replacement for Caicedo, Gallagher would also offer Brighton European football next season. The Seagulls finished sixth in the Premier League last season, meaning they will be competing in the Europa League group stage come September.
Newcastle United had previously been the favourites to sign Gallagher, but their odds have slipped to 7/2 following renewed speculation from Brighton. The Magpies secured themselves a fourth-place finish in the Premier League last season, securing Champions League football for the first time since 2003. Eddie Howe will need to improve on the strength and depth of his current squad in preparation for the increased workload and busier calendar next season.
West Ham United have also been linked with a move for Gallagher, likely as a potential back-up for the seemingly outward-bound Declan Rice. The Hammers won their first trophy in 43 years last season as they lifted the Europa Conference League, but only managed to finish in 14th place in the Premier League.
Borussia Dortmund are also reported to have had their ears pricked up by the news of Gallagher’s potential availability this summer. The Bundesliga runners-up have had to deal with the departure of star player Jude Bellingham to Real Madrid, and a like-for-like English replacement could be perfect for the club.
Conclusion
Conor Gallagher is a highly sought-after midfielder who is expected to leave Chelsea this summer due to the club’s need to trim down their squad. Brighton & Hove Albion have emerged as the favourites to sign the England international, with Newcastle United slipping behind following renewed speculation. West Ham United and Borussia Dortmund are also reportedly interested in Gallagher’s services.