Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has recently held discussions with three players who are facing potential exits from Stamford Bridge in January. The uncertainty surrounding the future of these key personnel has cast a shadow over Chelsea’s League Cup semi-final against Middlesbrough tonight.
One player whose situation remains uncertain is midfielder Conor Gallagher, who still has 18 months left on his current contract. As an academy product and the captain in the absence of Reece James, selling Gallagher for a significant fee would benefit Chelsea’s Financial Fair Play situation. Tottenham were previously linked with a move for Gallagher, with Ange Postecoglou waiting in the wings if Chelsea decides to sell. However, Pochettino stated in a press conference that no final decision has been made regarding Gallagher’s future, and discussions are also ongoing with two other squad members.
Pochettino emphasized the importance of having honest conversations with players and praised Gallagher for his performances and his familiarity with the club and the demands of the Premier League. Left-back Ian Maatsen, on the other hand, is reportedly close to joining Borussia Dortmund after struggling to secure a regular place in the team this season. Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos has returned to Chelsea after his loan spell at Nottingham Forest was cut short. Despite signing for Chelsea a year ago, Santos has yet to make a senior appearance for the club and has been linked with a move to West Brom in the Championship.