Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has urged his former club not to sell Conor Gallagher to Tottenham, insisting that the Blues cannot afford to lose the midfielder.
It has been widely reported by many outlets across the British media that Chelsea are open to sacrificing Gallagher in order to raise sufficient funds to be able to pursue their January targets (The Athletic).
The development has seemingly piqued Tottenham’s interest, with the North London club allegedly ready to pounce on the 23-year-old as soon as the transfer window opens (talkSPORT).
The Blues’ willingness to sell Gallagher has come as a surprise to many, with the England international continuing to be a fixture in Mauricio Pochettino’s midfield.
The West London club’s hierarchy have been blasted in some quarters for their alleged willingness to sell the player against the wishes of Pochettino (talkSPORT).
Should Gallagher swap Chelsea for Tottenham?
Hasselbaink has become the latest pundit to try and persuade Chelsea against the idea of selling Gallagher, with the 51-year-old insisting that the midfielder’s attributes as a player and his leadership qualities make him a valuable asset for the side.
The Dutchman told Amazon Prime Sport (7:08 pm, 27 December): “They need the know-how and that’s what he (Gallagher) gives you. He’s one of the seniors in the team. He’s the captain as well. He’s come through the ranks. I’m surprised to hear that they might move him on.
“I hope that they don’t (sell him) because he gives you the balance that at the moment you don’t have. Yes, 18 months on his contract doesn’t help his situation, but I think Chelsea needs Gallagher at this moment to stay.”
Spurs Web Opinion
It is certainly not surprising that those associated with Chelsea are up in arms regarding the news on Gallagher. The idea of selling him to Tottenham would be particularly indigestible for them.
However, the West London club have to sell some assets if they are to make any new signings, given their FFP situation, and Spurs will look to take full advantage.