Chelsea submit bid for £25m Gallagher replacement who’s “like Frank Lampard”
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Chelsea’s Journey Under Pochettino and Future Prospects
Chelsea showed signs of growth under Mauricio Pochettino last season. However, despite their progress, the team couldn’t reach the expected heights, ending the season in sixth place in the Premier League, which led to the Argentinian coach’s departure.
A New Era with Enzo Maresca
The arrival of Enzo Maresca signals a new era for Chelsea, with a focus on a controlled, possession-based style of play. This long-term project under Todd Boehly’s ownership aims to elevate the club to new heights. However, the pre-season has been somewhat underwhelming, highlighting the need for reinforcements in midfield, especially with Conor Gallagher set to leave for an overseas move.
Chelsea Transfer News
Gallagher has been a key figure in Chelsea’s lineup over recent seasons. Despite being labeled “priceless” by Pochettino earlier this year, the club has agreed to a €40m (£34m) deal with Atletico Madrid for his transfer. In response, there’s speculation, as reported by Sky Sports, that Chelsea is eyeing Celtic’s Matt O’Riley. The Danish midfielder has also caught the attention of Atalanta, Leicester City, and West Ham United, making it crucial for Chelsea to act quickly if they want to secure his signature. O’Riley is valued at around £25m, and his potential addition could be a significant boost.
What Matt O’Riley Could Bring to Chelsea
O’Riley joined Celtic from MK Dons in January 2022 for a modest £1.5m, after showcasing talent that set him apart from his peers. Talent scout Jacek Kulig has praised him as a “magician,” and the former Fulham youth player has been a vital player for Celtic. Last season, he notched up 19 goals and 18 assists, playing a crucial role in securing the domestic double for the team.
Pundit David Healy has even compared O’Riley to Chelsea legend Frank Lampard, noting similarities in their attacking prowess from midfield. Lampard’s ability to consistently score and assist was legendary, and O’Riley offers a comparable threat with his combination of scoring ability and playmaking skills. Last season, he averaged 2.5 key passes, 1.7 tackles, 5.6 ball recoveries, one dribble, and 4.6 successful duels per game in the Premiership, according to Sofascore.
At just 23, O’Riley may feel he’s achieved all he can at Celtic, having even proven his worth in the Champions League. With three assists in six group games last season, he’s shown he has the talent to compete at the highest level, making him an exciting prospect for Chelsea as a potential new star at Stamford Bridge.
