Chelsea star in hot demand as Wolves next to register interest

Tammy Abraham, Billy Gilmour Barnsley v Chelsea February 2021

Wolves are reported to have joined the race to sign Billy Gilmour on loan for next season as Chelsea look to get the youngster some valuable playing time.

Gilmour, 20, has found his first-team opportunities few and far between at Stamford Bridge over the last two seasons. Nevertheless, in the limited minutes he has received he has impressed. Despite his youthfulness and inexperience, he has not looked out of his depth against the superstars of the Premier League. And he proved he can hang on the international stage too in his full debut for Scotland against England last week.

He was awarded man-of-the-match following a commanding display. This helped his country frustrate their neighbours in the 0-0 draw.

A positive Covid-19 test then cruelly ruled him out of their Group D decider against Croatia on Tuesday.

It is clear that Gilmour needs regular first-team action and the youngster recognises that he will not get this under Thomas Tuchel next season.  

Both player and club are therefore said to be keen on sending him out on-loan this summer. And Football Insider are reporting that Wolves are interested in offering him the chance to progress his development in 2021/22.

Wolves are reported to be open to offers for Ruben Neves. The Portuguese midfielder has been heavily linked with Arsenal. If he leaves Molineux, then his central spot would be available for Gilmour to fill.

However, they could face competition from a number of keen suitors. It has been reported that five Premier League clubs are chasing the signing.

Top of this pile is said to be Norwich. The Canaries may be better positioned to offer Gilmour regular football as they are already actively seeking a central midfielder.

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Chelsea look to be set to rival Man City in the race to sign Jack Grealish, while Arsenal want to sell William Saliba and Sergio Ramos looks set to move to Paris St-Germain.

Their Championship title victory success last season was aided by on-loan Tottenham midfielder Oliver Skipp. Daniel Farke is keen on getting Skipp back for their Premier League return. But Spurs’ lack of a manager is halting progress on this move.

Gilmour would provide a like-for-like replacement for Skipp and is readily available. Therefore, a deal looks achievable for both parties.

Gilmour not the only Wolves target

The report also claims that Wolves are working on a deal to sign Sporting midfielder Joao Palhinha.

The 25-year-old featured in the second half of Portugal’s 2-2 draw with France last night.

He demands a large price tag but would provide new manager Bruno Lage with a long-term midfield option, as opposed to the short-term option of Gilmour.

Palhinha is also a man in-demand. Premier League rivals Everton and Leicester are reported to be in the mix for him too.

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