Conor Gallagher rejected Everton in January, Chelsea exit was ‘very close’ – Jason Cundy
Everton were “very close” to signing Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher in the January transfer window, but the 23-year-old did not want to go through with the deal, according to Jason Cundy.
Moreover, Crystal Palace attempted to bring the youngster back to Selhurst Park last summer, but the Blues did not want to let the midfielder go.
More recently, the Toffees were reportedly keen on his services in January as they looked to bolster their midfield, but Gallagher stayed at Stamford Bridge, with a potential battle for his signature taking place at the end of the season.
Speaking live on talkSPORT on Friday (17 March, 25m49s), Cundy said: “My understanding is that Chelsea didn’t want to get rid of him in the summer. Even though Crystal Palace came back in.
“My understanding is that, in January, he was very close to going to Everton. But I believe he didn’t want to go through with the deal so nothing happened.”
Missed opportunity?
Everton could certainly do with a player of Gallagher’s calibre in their fight for Premier League survival, but the Toffees have had to move on from the disappointment of missing out on the midfielder in recent months.
His abilities with and without the ball are certainly to be admired, while the 23-year-old has proven himself in front of goal with many fine efforts during his loan spell at Crystal Palace.
Gallagher’s displays for the Eagles not only earned rave reviews, but also a permanent place in the Chelsea team, with the midfielder making 32 appearances in all competitions this season.
However, if the Toffees manage to avoid the drop, they could once again register an interest in the England international, particularly given just how many players Chelsea currently have among their ranks.
The midfielder, who is currently earning £50,000-a-week at the Blues, according to the Sun, may just be one of the most-talked-about players in this summer’s transfer window.