Conor Gallagher could be key in Chelsea beating Arsenal to top transfer target

Tom Weber

• 12 Apr 2023 11:56 BST
• 3 min read

Conor Gallagher could have a key role to play in Chelsea's transfer battle with Arsenal over the signature of Declan Rice.

Rice is one of the Premier League's hottest commodities and he has long since been linked with a move to one of England's established elite. Having reportedly turned down several contract offers from his current club West Ham, the England star could be on his way out this summer as the Hammers will be keen to cash in on him before his deal expires in two years.

Chelsea and Arsenal are considered the favourites to land the 24-year-old, although they will likely have to pay north of €100 million to get him. That's the price tag West Ham have slapped on the defensive midfielder, and while Chelsea have a natural advantage due to their stronger financial position, their out-of-favour midfielder Conor Gallagher could be what ultimately tips the balance in their fight with Arsenal.

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A swap deal?

That is because West Ham are said to have revived their interest in the Chelsea man. The Hammers have admired Gallagher for some time, according to the Evening Standard, and they have identified him and Manchester City's Kalvin Phillips as potential Rice replacement, permitting the East London club can retain their Premier League status.

Chelsea could, therefore, use Gallagher as a makeweight to land Rice. Indeed, the Blues have been linked a few times with swap deals under the Todd Boehly regime. Previously, it was reported that they could offer Christian Pulisic to Napoli to get Victor Osimhen, while they were also reportedly interested in swapping Romelu Lukaku for Roma's Tammy Abraham.

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Including Conor Gallagher, who has struggled to get consistent minutes at Stamford Bridge this season, in the agreement- even if it's just a loan - could sweeten the deal and make Declan Rice's departure more palatable to West Ham. Signing for a smaller club could also revitalise Gallagher, who has not been able to repeat the form he showed on loan at Crystal Palace since his return to Chelsea.