Chelsea Football Club is monitoring the status of a title-winning midfielder as they anticipate the potential departure of Conor Gallagher, according to a report by TBR Football.
Since Todd Boehly took over ownership, Chelsea has made significant investments in their squad, spending over £1 billion.
Despite this hefty expenditure, the club has yet to become serious contenders for major trophies.
Committed to rebuilding and elevating their competitive edge, Chelsea is planning substantial acquisitions in the upcoming summer transfer window.
One of their primary targets is a player from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
Chelsea’s interest is specifically focused on PSG’s Manuel Ugarte.
TBR Football notes that Chelsea is keeping a close eye on Ugarte’s situation at PSG.
The French champions are currently undergoing a squad overhaul and are considering offloading several high-cost players, including Ugarte.
The Uruguayan midfielder, who joined PSG from Sporting Lisbon in the summer of 2023 for approximately £51 million, was previously pursued by Chelsea.
Although they missed out on him at that time, their interest in Ugarte remains strong, and they are now exploring the possibility of securing his services this summer.
At 23 years old, Ugarte is reportedly aware of PSG’s willingness to consider offers for him and is open to the idea of moving to England.
Simultaneously, Chelsea is preparing for the potential exit of Conor Gallagher.
Despite bringing in newer talents like Carney Chukwuemeka, Lesley Ugochukwu, and Romeo Lavia, these players have struggled to make a significant impact due to injury issues.
This situation underscores the necessity for Chelsea to prioritize the acquisition of a new midfielder.
Alongside Chelsea, other top clubs like Liverpool, Manchester United, and Juventus, who have previously shown interest in Ugarte, will likely be monitoring his availability closely.
Conor Gallagher’s future at Chelsea has been under discussion since the summer of 2023.
As he approaches the final year of his contract, Chelsea faces a pressing decision regarding his future.
TBR Football reports that Gallagher has not yet received a contract extension offer from Chelsea, which has attracted interest from clubs like Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, and West Ham United.
Despite these external interests, Gallagher wishes to remain at Stamford Bridge but is becoming increasingly concerned about the absence of a firm contract offer, despite initial contract discussions that began in the summer of 2023.
Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino is keen on retaining Gallagher and hopes the club will act to extend his contract.
Under Boehly’s ownership, Chelsea’s massive financial outlay has not yet translated into the desired level of competitiveness.
This summer’s transfer window is crucial for the club’s strategic plans to strengthen their squad and challenge the top teams more effectively.
Their monitoring of Ugarte signals a targeted approach to address specific needs within the team, particularly in the midfield, an area that has been problematic due to injuries and the inconsistent performance of recent recruits.
The potential signing of Manuel Ugarte from PSG reflects Chelsea’s proactive efforts to bolster their squad.
Ugarte, a dynamic midfielder with a strong presence, could provide the stability and skill set Chelsea needs.
His previous links to Chelsea during his transfer from Sporting Lisbon highlight the club’s sustained interest in him.
As PSG looks to streamline their squad and reduce their wage bill, Ugarte could become available, offering Chelsea a strategic opportunity to enhance their midfield options.
Conor Gallagher’s situation, on the other hand, poses a significant dilemma for Chelsea.
With his contract nearing its end, the lack of a concrete extension offer places the club at risk of losing a homegrown talent.
Gallagher’s desire to stay and his importance to Pochettino’s plans make the resolution of his contract a priority.
However, the delay in formalizing a new deal has opened the door for other Premier League clubs to express their interest, adding pressure on Chelsea to make a decisive move.