Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher has been handed a new role at the club as he continues to be linked with a summer move.
Gallagher turned down a new three-year contract offer from Chelsea on Wednesday and he has been informed he will only be a squad player under Enzo Maresca’s possession-heavy style of play at Stamford Bridge.
The England international is free to negotiate personal terms after the Blues accepted an offer in the region of £33 million.
Gallagher turned down a move to Aston Villa earlier in the transfer window, while Tottenham have also been monitoring his situation. He is now set to decide his future before the week ends.
The 24-year-old was a key part of the midfield engine room that powered Chelsea’s improvement during the latter stages of Mauricio Pochettino’s tenure.
According to the BBC, Chelsea told Gallagher he was unlikely to play a prominent role under Enzo Maresca, owing largely to the Italian’s possession-based gameplan.
Despite appearing to have been backed into a corner, Gallagher’s position remains that were he to be offered more favourable terms he would likely stay put and fight for his future in the belief he can thrive under Chelsea’s latest new manager.
Gallagher made 37 starts in the Premier League last season, scoring five goals.
His seven assists ranked him second among Chelsea players. He was also second for chances created, while topping the club metrics for winning possession.
