Conor Gallagher latest: Crystal Palace spearhead three-way transfer saga after double-edged Vieira admission

Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher may make a return to Selhurst Park this summer after Patrick Vieira claimed Crystal Palace are waiting to “see what will happen”.

Gallagher has been on top form throughout the season and has been a real shining light within Vieira’s young squad. The midfielder has been one of the first names on the team sheet, appearing 39 times in all competitions.

During his time on loan at the club, he has managed to contribute to 13 goals altogether, comprising of eight goals and five assists.

The midfielder has been in such good form that he was recently handed his first cap for England’s senior squad, with his eyes now being set on having a seat to the Qatar World Cup this winter.

His future, however, is somewhat up in the air as Chelsea supposedly want to keep him throughout pre-season to see if he can fit into their team. Everton and West Ham are also reportedly interested in acquiring Gallagher’s services.

The most concrete interest is from Palace, however. Vieira rates Gallagher in the highest regard, even stating he has “made us proud”.

He said via the Daily Star: “I think it was a really good season for Conor. What made us proud is that he came to this football club for a year and he is leaving this football club as a really different player.

“He’s an international player now. We played our part. And he played his part as well. Now we wish him good luck and we wait and see what will happen. But we may have a player in the squad already who can replace him.”

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This showcases Vieira’s desire to bring the midfielder back to the London-based club for next season. It does, however, also outline the potential of a Palace player replacing him in the upcoming season.

Conor Gallagher on his future

After this season, the England international is among the hottest homegrown prospects in the Premier League. He has now had two stints within the top flight, sporting the colours of Palace and West Brom.

Gallagher has had his say on where he feels his future may lie and how much Vieira’s guidance has helped him improve. He has also spoken on his comparison to Vieira’s playing days.

He said: “I think he was a better player than me! But he’s made me feel really welcome, he’s really helped me and showed a lot of trust in me.

“He gave me a lot of confidence and I’ve played most of the games. It’s been great for my development and allowed me to show what I can do.

“It’s gone well. Better than I imagined to be honest. I was really excited to come to Palace. It’s a family club and the fans are loud. I didn’t realise how loud until I experienced it. It’s been unreal.”

This showcases the midfielder’s gratitude for the opportunity Palace have provided him with, as well as the guidance Vieira has placed upon his shoulders.

If Gallagher was to return to Selhurst Park, he would be welcomed with open arms. He would likely be their midfield general for years to come.

READ MORE – Crystal Palace transfer news: Agent reveals Christian Benteke’s plans for next season