Crystal Palace are preparing a second raid on Chelsea with their interest in signing midfielder Conor Gallagher, Turkish journalist Ekrem Konur claims.
The Eagles are currently going through a squad rebuild after the release of several experienced stars at the expiry of their contracts.
They have already had an impressive transfer window, having added Michael Olise, Remi Mathews, Marc Guehi and Joachim Andersen to their ranks.
Guehi’s transfer from Chelsea came as a surprise, but the deal proved ideal for both clubs with the Blues retaining matching rights for a future transfer.
It is now reported that Patrick Vieira’s side are lining up a move for another Blues graduate in Gallagher, who spent last season on loan at West Bromwich Albion.
The nature of the proposal has not been mentioned, but the Eagles have a contingency plan. They will target Fenerbahce’s Ozan Tufan if they can’t seal a deal.
Sportslens view:
Gallagher had a promising stint with the Baggies last season, averaging 2.7 tackles and 2.3 take-ons in his 30 Premier League appearances.
The 21-year-old is not in the immediate plans of manager Thomas Tuchel, but the club are still reluctant to lose him on a permanent deal.
Another loan stint would also be beneficial for his development, and Vieira will hope to lure him to Palace with the assurance of game time.
It won’t be straightforward for Palace despite their purchase of Guehi. Leeds United are set to offer strong competition for the player’s services.
Tufan has been highlighted as the alternative. He is more experienced at 26, and has made regular goal contributions during his time in Istanbul.
However, the Premier League would provide a much stiffer challenge. Palace may give preference to a midfielder that is accustomed to the league.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
Read: Leeds and Tottenham will have to pay more than €30m for Mikkel Damsgaard.
