Fingers crossed then

As much as I'd love to see Gallagher back next season I just can't see it happening. Either Chelsea will want a huge transfer fee, a ridiculous loan fee or, more likely, they'll want him for themselves to see how he integrates.

He is not the best passer even at Palace or the most creative, he's not the best tackler, and definitely not the best header of the ball, but what he has is a ridiculous amount of energy, is really quick and shows composure and quick thinking in and around the opposition penalty area. He plays regularly for Chelsea next season as an attacking midfielder and he gets 10-15+ goals. I'd be amazed if Chelsea don't keep him around next season.

I'd agree, though I'm not sure those are traits that top top teams value as much as the midfield teams. Chelsea will be needing players with drive, but also someone who can pick a pass (like that one Luca M that knocked them out of the CL). And Connor isn't that player. Nor is he the deep lying engine room like a Kalvin Phillips.

Either way, Chelsea will have a good look at him in pre season, maybe even see how the first couple of weeks of the season go. If he's disastrous they may get rid before the window. But as he value wont dip in a couple of months I think they will be waiting until at least Jan.

Unless of course they need to lighten the load, if the new owners are anything like RA, they could easily go out and buy 2 new CM's this summer! Declan Rice is a Chelsea fan so I wouldn't be surprised to see him there.

On the CFC money front - obviously prospective new owners have bid / are bidding through this law firm in the USA - One of the reports that was floating around at the time was that any new owner would have to promise £1 billion over & above the bid club purchase price for much needed ground improvements & new players - I couldn't help thinking at the time that if these ground improvements were so "much needed" then why weren't they undertaken during the RA tenure -

Was it because they didn't own the pitch ?

Anyone any ideas ?

Thanks Willo -
Interesting article there - so I gather that any ground improvements that were becoming necessary were shelved pending the building of a new stadium which in itself was then shelved & the improvements required earlier now need to be revisited.

Chelsea will do one of three things with Gallagher. Bring him back , sell him or loan him out again. If they sell him I doubt Palace can compete or desire to spend a huge chunk of our transfer funds on him. If they loan him out again they will be looking to develop his experience and playing style and will seek out a club offering him new challenges.
Let’s face it boys he won’t be back . COYP