Keith Downie has claimed that Conor Gallagher is ‘the right player’ and ‘someone Eddie Howe would want’ at Newcastle United, amid links between the Magpies and the England ace.
Gallagher is on a bit of a comedown after such a successful loan spell last season, and has struggled at times whenever given the opportunity at Stamford Bridge this season.
In four games, the Chelsea midfielder has struggled when starting in the Blues’ 3-0 loss against Leeds United and was sent off against Leicester City in his most recent outing to forget. Meanwhile, he played just one minute against Everton on the opening day.
And with the summer transfer window coming to a close, the 22-year-old hasn’t got long to make a move if he decides to make that decision.
Downie has had his say on Gallagher, telling GiveMeSport: “They will only bring in the right player.
“Now, I think Conor Gallagher is the right player for what they’re looking for. I don’t know what the characteristics or temperament of these other guys they have been linked with are because I don’t know them, but I’ve seen enough of Conor Gallagher to know that he’s someone Eddie Howe would want in his team or would want in his squad.”
TIF Thoughts on Downie’s comments…
We’d have to agree with Downie. A move to Newcastle for Gallagher would certainly make sense, especially under Howe. The Magpies were previously linked with Lucas Paqueta, but that deal now looks unlikely to happen, with the midfielder now set to join West Ham. Gallagher is of a similar ilk as Paqueta, however, and would offer Newcastle an alternative.
Both players contribute to goals from midfield, with Paqueta directly involved in 18 goals in all competitions last season, whilst Gallagher was involved in 13. So, it is clear that Gallagher would fit the profile of the type of midfielder that Newcastle have previously targeted, and with time still left in the transfer window, a deal would certainly make sense.
And with the added bonus of having had Premier League, we are not surprised Howe would be eyeing up someone like Gallagher to bolster his midfield.