Reason why Todd Boehly is not convinced yet by Chelsea star Conor Gallagher for new deal
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!In the complex world of contract negotiations, Chelsea owner Todd Boehly remains hesitant to extend a new deal to Conor Gallagher, harboring two significant reservations about the midfielder.
Gallagher, showcasing his prowess with a stellar two-goal performance in Chelsea’s recent 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace, earned accolades from manager Mauricio Pochettino, who dubbed him ‘priceless’ in the post-match press conference. However, behind the scenes, a dichotomy exists regarding Gallagher’s future at Stamford Bridge.
Despite Pochettino’s desire to retain the “priceless” asset, concerns linger within the Chelsea hierarchy, particularly in Boehly’s quarters. The midfielder, an academy product with less than 18 months left on his current contract, becomes a potential financial windfall for the club if sold, as they stand to make a 100% profit.
Boehly, however, grapples with two principal apprehensions. Firstly, doubts persist about Gallagher’s long-term suitability for Chelsea, especially as the club finds themselves in 10th place this season. The question looms large: Is Gallagher, despite his standout performances, the caliber of player that aligns with Chelsea’s ambitions to vie for Premier League glory?
Secondly, a clash arises over wage structure. Boehly, an American owner, is resistant to shattering the club’s established wage hierarchy. Gallagher, whose contract is in its twilight, has aspirations of a significant pay raise, hoping to nearly triple his current £70,000-a-week salary. However, Chelsea maintains a rough £150,000-a-week limit for the majority of their squad. The club, in contrast to teammate Reece James, considers Gallagher outside the bracket warranting a departure from their structured wage framework.
The contract saga unfolds as a delicate dance between the aspirations of a promising midfielder and the financial calculus and strategic vision of the club’s ownership. As Gallagher’s future hangs in the balance, the intricacies of football negotiations play out against the backdrop of ambition, financial prudence, and the ever-evolving dynamics within the Chelsea ranks.