Much has been written about the West Ham captain over the last few days. In particular the identity of the player the Hammers are reportedly considering as part of a Declan Rice swap deal has remained a mystery.
One name however has come to the forefront in the last few hours, and it’s a player from Dec’s former club Chelsea. Conor Gallagher and Ruben Loftus-Cheek have emerged as potential part exchange candidates with the former being of particular interest to West Ham.
Gallagher has enjoyed patchy form following his loan move to Crystal Palace. Whilst his time at Selhurst Park was a huge success and propelled him into the England squad, his return to West London has not been so productive.
Gallagher could be involved in a Declan Rice swap deal
Such has been the circus surrounding Chelsea it’s difficult to imagine any player thriving in such an environment. Despite the clubs rollercoaster Premier League season Gallagher’s stock has remained high both domestically and internationally.
It is understood that West Ham would be interested in taking the Chelsea player as part of the Declan Rice transfer. The Hammers are ready to accept £120m for Rice but reports have emerged that a makeweight would be considered.
Quite how much Gallagher would be valued at as part of any deal remains to be seen. Even if he were priced at £30m it would still require Chelsea to pay an additional £90m to secure Rice.
At these excessive numbers it becomes difficult to imagine any deal being concluded. But Chelsea’s new owner Todd Boehly has not been shy in spending money so perhaps another spree is imminent.
Whether Chelsea would match Declan’s criteria as a Champions League club remains to be seen following their struggles.
Ask for both Gallacher and Loftus Cheek to really add depth to our central midfield