Aston Villa hold preliminary talks with Chelsea over Gallagher move

Aston Villa have held preliminary talks with Chelsea about a move to sign Conor Gallagher.

Gallagher is entering the final 12 months of his contract at Stamford Bridge and has emerged as a top target for Unai Emery.

Villa are looking to enhance their squad after achieving Champions League qualification for the first time and manager Emery is a huge admirer of the England midfielder.

The midlands side are also in contact with Gallagher’s camp as they explore a potential deal following the 24-year-old’s excellent form last season.

There is a healthy relationship between the clubs — the new Chelsea hierarchy dealt with Villa when recruiting Carney Chukwuemeka in 2022 — and the west London team retain a strong interest in Villa striker Jhon Duran.

Colombia international Duran, 20, was considered by Chelsea in January and is again among the candidates to strengthen their frontline this summer, while enquiries have also arrived from Italy, Saudi Arabia and Spain.

(Dan Mullan/Getty Images)