Newcastle United could be about to sign Conor Gallagher after £72m update – pundit
Noel Whelan has backed Conor Gallagher to join Newcastle on loan if Chelsea can complete a deal for Frenkie de Jong.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 22-year-old England international could be an alternative to Magpies target James Maddison.
According to I News‘ Mark Douglas (11 August), Newcastle have held talks with Chelsea over a number of players and are interested in a potential loan deal for Gallagher, Armando Broja, and Callum Hudson-Odoi.
Premier League rules stipulate that the Magpies can only sign one player on loan from the same club.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are reportedly ready to sign Frenkie de Jong if he can negotiate an amicable exit from Barcelona – with the Blues willing to match Man United’s £72million bid for the midfielder.
Gallagher spent last season out on loan at Crystal Palace, notching eight goals and five assists across 39 games for the club.
Whelan insisted a deal for the England international is a “no-brainer” after his recent performances.
“I think it’ll rest on Frenkie de Jong,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“If he comes in, I think Gallagher will be allowed to leave Chelsea on loan again.
“Newcastle aren’t going to get Maddison, so where do they turn to? Conor Gallagher. We know he’s a real talent.
“He’s a similar player in that midfield role, very creative, scores goals, assists – but Newcastle won’t be held to ransom.
“Gallagher is ready and waiting, he’s fit, he’s proved he can do it in the Premier League – it’s a no-brainer, for me.
“If they manage to get him, that will definitely help the front line out with his forward thinking and creativity.”
In other news, Football Insider updates as Newcastle green-light £40m superstar deal.