Aston Villa

Aston Villa

Premier League • England

Fabrizio Romano gives Aston Villa hope after admitting Steven Gerrard ‘love’ for Conor Gallagher

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard’s ‘love’ for Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher, as doubts continue to surround where the midfielder will be playing his football in the coming season.

There has been growing transfer talk that Villa could make a move for the England star, despite the fact they have already landed Boubacar Kamara to bolster Gerrard’s engine room this summer.

Villa are, however, expected to continue to strengthen in that area. That is largely due to doubts over the futures of Morgan Sanson, Carney Chukwuemeka and Douglas Luiz.

BirminghamLive reports that Villa are ‘aware’ of Gallagher’s current situation. Meanwhile, a fee of £30million has been mooted for any club trying to sign the 22-year-old.

Thomas Tuchel is expected to take a close look at Gallagher in pre-season before making any decision.

However, Romano gave an update on the player on the Que Golazo Podcast, saying: “Great player but I’m told Steven Gerrard loves him, he really loves him and rates him highly but he’s not the only one.

“I think that he will stay with Chelsea for the pre-season and they will decide with the player what is the best solution. I am sure that Thomas Tuchel wants to keep an eye on this boy before accepting any proposals. Tuchel wants to see this boy and work with him.”

Gallagher shows his qualities at Palace

Gallagher really came to the fore last season on loan at Crystal Palace. The box-to-box midfielder scored eight goals and added five assists in 39 games in all competitions for the Eagles.

The Chelsea man was also earned the first of his four England caps in November 2021. Gallagher came on as a substitute in the 10-0 mauling of San Marino.

As for Gallagher’s Chelsea future, much now depends on the impression he makes on Tuchel ahead of the new campaign.

The Blues may well decide that another loan could benefit the player, although a sale appears unlikely.

READ MORE: Aston Villa ‘show Soucek interest’ as West Ham reveal surprise asking price